Bryan Herta Autosport Expands with LMP2 Entry and Ambitions for GTP Program
Brownsburg, IN – Bryan Herta Autosport (BHA) is set to make a significant leap into the LMP2 category in 2024 through collaboration with PR1/Mathiasen Motorsports, fielding the No. 52 ORECA 07-Gibson. This move marks a pivotal step in Herta’s broader strategy to secure a manufacturer partnership for Genesis, Hyundai’s luxury brand, by 2027.
Herta has openly expressed strong interest in Genesis’s future GTP program: “We’ve got great interest in the Genesis GTP program, and it’s certainly something we’ve discussed with them,” he stated. This assertion highlights BHA’s proactive approach to carving out a place in the IMSA landscape.
LMP2 Goals and Infrastructure Growth
The shift to LMP2 is not merely a new challenge but part of a meticulously planned growth trajectory. Herta sees this entry as essential for gaining valuable WeatherTech SportsCar Championship experience: “This is a chance for us to grow our program,” he added. BHA’s robust history includes successes in TCR, Indy Lights, and Global RallyCross, underscoring the team’s diverse racing background.
BHA’s existing infrastructure, bolstered by a team of over 50 personnel during race events, positions it advantageously for the new project. However, Herta acknowledges the challenges of scaling operations, saying, “The growth phases are always tough,” but emphasizing excitement in tackling new challenges.
Engineering and Team Development
Engineering expertise will be critical as BHA navigates the prototype realm. With PR1/Mathiasen’s extensive experience in LMP2, Herta plans to expand his engineering team significantly, stating there has been “tremendous interest” from potential engineers. “We want to significantly increase our engineering presence,” he noted, reinforcing a focus on technical growth.
Driver Selection and Future Prospects
BHA is currently evaluating drivers for the LMP2 campaign, with aspirations to finalize a lineup by the upcoming Petit Le Mans. Herta hinted at the potential return of Logan Sargeant, who has shown promising pace during a recent outing.
BHA’s approach diverges from other teams that pursue GTD programs aligned with major manufacturers, a strategy Herta believes could dilute the goal of attracting a new partner. “To do GTD/Pro properly, you need to be aligned with a manufacturer,” he explained.
Conclusion
BHA’s LMP2 initiative, in partnership with PR1/Mathiasen, embodies a tactical move towards establishing a foothold in higher-tier prototypes and attracting a significant manufacturer like Genesis. With a clear blueprint for engineering growth and a diverse racing pedigree, Herta’s team is poised to make its mark in IMSA, transitioning from its successful TCR program to the challenges ahead in prototypes. The foundation is set; now, it’s a matter of executing the vision.
