Heart of Racing Prepares for 2026 IMSA Season at Rolex 24 At Daytona
The Heart of Racing Team will commence its 2026 IMSA campaign at the 64th annual Rolex 24 At Daytona, fielding a dual-class effort with the #23 Aston Martin Valkyrie AMR-LMH in the GTP category and the #27 Aston Martin Vantage GT3 Evo in GTD.
Competing in the GTP division as Aston Martin THOR Team, the #23 Valkyrie will retain its full-season driver lineup, featuring Ross Gunn and Roman de Angelis. Alex Riberas will rejoin the team for the Michelin Endurance Cup’s longest races, including Daytona, Sebring, and Petit Le Mans. Joining them at Daytona will be Marco Sørensen, aiming for a strong result after the Valkyrie’s recent podium finish with a second-place at Petit Le Mans.
“We missed Daytona last year, but I’m looking forward to returning with the Valkyrie,” said Gunn. “2026 is an opportunity to keep pushing forward and I’m determined to continue our recent form.”
In the GTD category, the #27 Vantage will see the debut of Eduardo “Dudu” Barrichello, son of F1 veteran Rubens Barrichello, as he replaces Casper Stevenson. Barrichello, who has prior IMSA experience and a successful WEC campaign, will race alongside Tom Gamble, Zacharie Robichon, and Mattia Drudi.
“It’s always been a dream of mine to race in IMSA,” commented Barrichello. “To do it with such an iconic team is something I never thought possible.”
Gamble, who secured a third-place finish at Daytona last year, expressed confidence in the team’s capabilities. “We have the tools to achieve our championship goals this year, and I’m excited to see what I can achieve with Dudu.”
The upcoming Rolex 24 At Daytona promises to be a pivotal event for both Heart of Racing entries as they aim to capitalize on their momentum from 2025 and establish themselves in the competitive IMSA landscape.
