Competitive Dynamics Intensify in IMSA’s GTD PRO Ahead of Detroit Race
As the Chevrolet Detroit Sports Car Classic approaches, the GTD PRO category is witnessing a tightly contested title race, distinct from the commanding dominance of the Porsche Penske Motorsport team in the GTP class. With only three races completed this season, four teams from different manufacturers are engaged in a fierce competition, separated by just 107 points. In contrast, the GTP standings feature a significant 280-point gap between the leading No. 7 Penske Porsche and the top non-Porsche entry.
The Detroit street circuit, measuring 1.7 miles, is generating mixed reactions among fans, who are split between support for traditional road courses and concerns stemming from previous accidents at this challenging venue. Nevertheless, two European drivers, Klaus Bachler of AO Racing and Christopher Mies of Ford Multimatic Motorsports, are eager to tackle the demanding layout.
Bachler, currently leading the championship with co-driver Laurin Heinrich, aims to build on their success after back-to-back wins at Sebring and Laguna Seca. Reflecting on the unique challenges posed by street racing, Bachler stated, “I really love street circuits… the only thing you can do is try for the same and look at what the team did last year.” He emphasized the importance of qualifying, stressing that “having a solid start in the race” and avoiding mistakes could be pivotal.
AO Racing will field their Porsche 911 "GT3 Rawr," adorned in gold motifs to celebrate their recent victory at Laguna Seca. In contrast, Mies hopes to stabilize his standing in the No. 65 Ford Mustang GT3 following a disappointing eighth-place finish at Laguna Seca, which dropped his team from first to fourth in the standings. Despite acknowledging the Mustang’s longer wheelbase as a disadvantage on street circuits, he remains optimistic about the team’s strategic possibilities, asserting, “Even if you think you can’t win without strategy, you can still have a shot.”
Mies, also competing at Detroit for the first time, aims to leverage his street racing experience from events in Australia. He recognizes the challenge posed by competitors familiar with the circuit from last year’s race, stating, “For us, it’s all about learning as quickly as possible and getting as close to the walls.”
With the combination of high stakes and unique challenges that the Detroit street circuit presents, the upcoming race promises to be a critical juncture in the GTD PRO championship.
