Genesis Gears Up for 2027 IMSA GTP Program
Genesis, the Korean automotive brand, is making significant strides toward its 2027 IMSA GTP program. Team principal Cyril Abiteboul recently stated that a pivotal decision regarding a service provider is imminent as the Genesis Magma Racing team refines its strategy for the upcoming seasons.
The Genesis GMR-001 LMDh prototype is currently in its final testing phase ahead of its FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) debut in 2026. While details on partner teams remain under wraps, Bryan Herta Autosport emerges as a frontrunner, with discussions ongoing with several organizations, including Chip Ganassi Racing and Pratt Miller Motorsport.
“We want to have maximum integration,” Abiteboul noted, referencing the potential collaboration on engineering resources for both the WEC and IMSA efforts, including the involvement of chief engineer Justin Taylor, who has experience in both championships.
Abiteboul has indicated a structured timeline, aiming to present a proposal to Genesis headquarters by Q1 2026 to solidify partnerships and initiate preparations for the IMSA entry. He highlighted a cautious approach: “We will probably enter around Watkins Glen,” indicating a preference for debuting mid-season rather than at the challenging Rolex 24 Hours at Daytona.
Genesis’s strategy is to build reliability and performance before expanding its presence in North America. Abiteboul emphasized: “Making sure that this (WEC) is correct is important. If the car were unreliable, I would not start sending cars around the world.” The team is considering fielding a single car initially, with an eye on two cars once sufficiently prepared.
Genesis’s collaboration with ORECA sets a three-year plan for production requirements, ensuring alignment with the needs of IMSA. As testing continues in Europe, plans for North American testing are also in development, with a commitment to familiarize the GMR-001 with the distinctive tracks in the U.S.
As the clock ticks down to 2027, Genesis aims to strategically position itself within IMSA while prioritizing quality and performance as it expands its motorsport footprint.
