Conquest Racing Confirms 2027 IMSA Driver Lineup: Franco and Costa Reunite
Conquest Racing has officially announced its driver lineup for the 2027 IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, reaffirming Manny Franco’s return as a full-season driver in the #34 Ferrari 296 GT3 Evo. Franco will race alongside Spanish professional Albert Costa, marking their renewed partnership after a hiatus for Franco in the 2026 season.
In the previous season, Franco and Costa secured a fourth-place finish in the GTD championship, highlighting a season marked by a notable victory at the Motul Petit Le Mans. “I’m excited to return for a full season,” Franco stated, reflecting on his past experiences with the team. “I still feel we have unfinished business in this championship.”
Team owner Eric Bachelart expressed enthusiasm for Franco’s comeback, recognizing the heightened competition in IMSA. “We need to execute on every detail to maximize the program,” he commented, emphasizing the importance of precision in a highly competitive environment.
Costa echoed similar sentiments, stating, “It’s more than just a team to me – it’s family.” After finishing eighth in points with top results including a third at Long Beach, Costa is optimistic about the upcoming season and the potential of their driver lineup.
Conquest Racing will also retain second-generation driver Lorenzo Patrese for the Michelin Endurance Cup, following his successful stint where he achieved pole position at Laguna Seca. He expressed gratitude for his return, emphasizing the strong dynamics within the team.
As Conquest Racing prepares for its 30th anniversary in motorsports, the focus remains on continued performance improvement and competitive success in the upcoming season, signaling a promising future for the team amidst evolving challenges in the sport.
