IMSA Michelin GT Challenge at VIR: Practice Session Highlights
In the second practice session for the IMSA Michelin GT Challenge at Virginia International Raceway (VIR), Ferrari dominated both GT classes, showcasing exceptional performance as teams prepare for qualifying.
The #81 DragonSpeed Ferrari 296 GT3, piloted by Giacomo Altoe, clocked in with a session-best time of 1:45.011, securing the top spot in the GTD PRO category. This builds on the momentum from Practice 1, where co-driver Albert Costa also led the field. Notably, the #64 Ford Multimatic Motorsports Mustang GT3, driven by Sebastian Priaulx, matched Altoe’s lap time, placing it second in GTD PRO.
In the GTD category, Onofrio Triarsi set the fastest time in the #021 Triarsi Competizione Ferrari with a lap of 1:45.324, recorded approximately 40 minutes into the 90-minute session.
The session was notably free of red flags. However, towards the end, the #4 Pratt Miller Motorsports Chevrolet Corvette Z06 GT3.R, driven by Tommy Milner, experienced an engine issue, requiring a precautionary engine replacement before qualifying. Co-driver Nicky Catsburg previously secured the third-fastest time for the team.
Other notable entries included the #12 Vasser Sullivan Lexus RC F GT3 of Jack Hawksworth, which finished second in the GTD category, followed closely by the #45 Wayne Taylor Racing Lamborghini Huracán GT3 EVO2 and the #57 Winward Racing Mercedes-AMG GT3 EVO.
As the field approaches qualifying, just under one second separates the best times of 19 out of the 23 cars, indicating a highly competitive atmosphere at VIR.
Practice 2 Results:
- Top GTD PRO: #81 DragonSpeed Ferrari 296 GT3 – Giacomo Altoe – 1:45.011
- Top GTD: #021 Triarsi Competizione Ferrari – Onofrio Triarsi – 1:45.324
Qualifying is set to commence today at 4:55 PM ET.
