Barrichello Makes IMSA Debut with Van der Steur Racing
Eduardo Barrichello made his IMSA debut at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, driving the #19 Aston Martin for Van der Steur Racing. This appearance coincides with his father’s historic win at the 2002 United States Grand Prix. Barrichello completed eight laps on the Grand Prix circuit, expressing satisfaction with the team’s camaraderie, citing co-drivers Anthony McIntosh and Valentin Hasse-Clot as key assets in his quest for experience and improvement.
“Really helps to have the boys that I already raced with together,” Barrichello stated about his returning teammates. He is substituting for Rory van der Steur, who is recovering from an injury, conveying optimism for his teammate’s recovery.
Michael Cooper Leads Pilot Challenge Practices
In the Michelin Pilot Challenge, Michael Cooper secured the fastest time in Practice 1 with a 1:29.552 in the #44 Ibiza Farm McLaren Artura GT4. Jesse Lazare followed closely in the #21 McLaren. Jake Walker took the top spot in Practice 2, clocking a 1:30.214 in the #96 Turner Motorsport BMW M4 GT4 EVO.
The TCR class was dominated by the #99 VGRT Cupra Leon VZ TCR, with Tyler Gonzalez and Eric Powell alternating fastest times across both sessions. Qualifying is set for Saturday at 8:00 AM, with the two-hour race at 12:40 PM.
KOHR Motorsports Aims for GT4 Success
KOHR Motorsports enters the weekend with its #60 Ford Mustang GT4, fielding a duo of series newcomers: Robert Noaker and Cameron McLeod. Noaker, a two-time Mustang Challenge champion, aims to complete a perfect season but emphasizes that his championship is the main goal, stating, “Really, anything from this point on, it’s just a bonus.”
McLeod, having experience in GT4 racing from Europe, is eager to make an impact in North America.
Porsche Carrera Cup Results
Zachary Vanier claimed victory in Race 1 of the Porsche Carrera Cup North America, driving the #9 JDX Racing Porsche 911 GT3 Cup. Ryan Yardley, finishing second, emerged as the new championship leader after capitalizing on Riley Dickinson’s fourth-place finish. Rookie Aaron Jeansonne, who started from pole, was shuffled back in the standings but will have another chance in Race 2.
In the Pro-Am class, Patrick Mulcahy secured the win, while Scott Blind continued his dominance in the Masters class.
Super Trofeo Race Highlights
Danny Formal and Hampus Eriksson dominated the Lamborghini Super Trofeo North America Race 1, marking their fifth win of the season. The duo’s #1 Wayne Taylor Racing Lamborghini finished ahead of the #69 entry, while Scott Huffaker and Jaden Conwright rounded out the podium.
Eriksson’s brother Marcus was present to support him as he prepares to start Race 2 from pole position on Saturday.
This weekend promises competitive racing across various classes, with significant implications for points and standings as the season progresses.
