Ferrari, Mustang share top times in second VIR practice

IMSA Michelin GT Challenge Practice Report: Ferrari Dominates at VIR

Virginia International Raceway – Following the second practice session for the IMSA Michelin GT Challenge, Ferraris have claimed the top positions in both GT classes, with the No. 81 DragonSpeed Ferrari 296 GT3 standing out in GTD PRO. Co-driver Giacomo Altoe clocked a blistering lap time of 1m45.011s, matching the exact time set by Sebastian Priaulx in the No. 64 Ford Mustang GT3—highlighting the intense competition within the class.

In GTD, Onofrio Triarsi set the pace in the No. 021 Triarsi Competizione Ferrari, achieving a time of 1m45.324s approximately 40 minutes into the session. This session ran smoothly without red flags, though some mechanical issues impacted a few teams.

Notably, smoke emitted from the exhaust of the No. 4 Pratt Miller Motorsports Chevrolet Corvette Z06 GT3.R, leading to a precautionary engine change after Tommy Milner’s stint. Earlier, co-driver Nicky Catsburg recorded the third-fastest time for the car, while teammate Antonio Garcia was in the mix within the session.

The No. 78 Forte Racing Lamborghini faced challenges with a fuel pump issue, limiting track time. In contrast, the No. 14 Vasser Sullivan Lexus had a successful session after resolving prior electrical problems.

The top five in GTD included the No. 12 Vasser Sullivan Lexus RC F GT3, No. 45 Wayne Taylor Racing Lamborghini Huracán GT3 EVO2, and No. 57 Winward Racing Mercedes-AMG GT3 EVO. Additionally, the No. 1 Paul Miller Racing BMW M4 GT3 EVO rounded out the overall top ten.

As teams prepare for the qualifying session scheduled at 4:55 PM ET today, the competitiveness is evident, with fewer than one second separating the fastest times of 19 of the 23 cars entered.

Results Summary

1. GTD PRO:
   • 1. No. 81 DragonSpeed Ferrari 296 GT3 – 1m45.011s
   • 1. No. 64 Ford Mustang GT3 – 1m45.011s
2. GTD:
   • 1. No. 021 Triarsi Competizione Ferrari – 1m45.324s
   • 1. No. 12 Vasser Sullivan Lexus RC F GT3
   • 1. No. 45 Wayne Taylor Racing Lamborghini Huracán GT3 EVO2
   • 1. No. 57 Winward Racing Mercedes-AMG GT3 EVO
   • 1. No. 1 Paul Miller Racing BMW M4 GT3 EVO

All eyes will be on qualifying—expect close times and fierce competition.