IMSA Action Heats Up at Indianapolis: Key Highlights
Indianapolis, IN — The Battle On The Bricks weekend is officially underway, featuring dynamic displays of motorsport excitement, charity initiatives, and significant driver updates.
Exhibition of Excellence: AO Racing’s Porsche 911 GT3 R
AO Racing’s 2024 championship-winning Porsche 911 GT3 R, nicknamed “Rexy,” is on display at the Indianapolis International Airport. Driven by Laurin Heinrich, Julien Andlauer, and Michael Christensen during last year’s Motul Petit Le Mans, the car retains the racing grime and fan signatures, symbolizing its endurance and connection with fans.
IMSA Street Festival Tonight
The IMSA Street Festival is set for tonight from 6:00 to 8:00 PM EDT. The festival features 20 race cars, over 70 driver autograph sessions, live pit stop demonstrations, and Q&A sessions—all free to attend. J. Douglas Boles, President of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, emphasized the event’s role in connecting fans with the sport ahead of the six-hour endurance race.
IMSA Resilient Racers Initiative Launch
This month sees the introduction of the IMSA Resilient Racers program, partnering with Camp Boggy Creek and the Austin Hatcher Foundation to support families affected by pediatric cancer. Each team at the event will honor a child, displaying their names alongside those of the drivers on the competition cars.
“This program merges motorsport with our mission to empower families battling cancer,” stated Amy Jo Osborn, CEO of the Austin Hatcher Foundation.
Driver Changes in GTD Class
Recent driver announcements highlight changes in the GTD class. Triarsi Competizione welcomes AJ Muss back to the #021 Ferrari 296 GT3, alongside Joel Miller and Niccolò Schirò, who are making their respective IMSA debuts.
Forte Racing has also added Eric Filgueiras as a new third driver for the race. “I can’t wait to contribute to a strong result,” said Filgueiras, previously of Lone Star Racing.
In another shift, Dan Knox exits the #80 Mercedes-AMG GT3 EVO in favor of Lin Hodenius, making his IMSA debut.
Winward Racing’s Tribute to Flood Victims
Winward Racing’s #57 Mercedes-AMG GT3 EVO will feature the names of 27 young girls lost in the Camp Mystic floods, supporting the Heaven’s 27 Fund dedicated to providing scholarships and aid to families.
Pre-Race Movements and Veteran Drivers
Several drivers are returning from a successful weekend at the Suzuka 1000km event. Notable participants include Corvette Racing’s Alexander Sims and Nicky Catsburg, along with a strong contingent representing the WeatherTech Championship.
Pilot Challenge Entry List Swells
The Michelin Pilot Challenge for Saturday’s Indianapolis Motor Speedway 120 has garnered 41 entries, showcasing 26 GT4s and 15 TCR cars. Noteworthy updates include KOHR Motorsports’ lineup featuring Ford Racing Junior Team drivers, as well as a mid-season manufacturer switch for Rockwell Automation Development from Audi to Hyundai.
With championship implications on the line, Luca Mars and Jan Heylen lead the GS standings, while the TCR Championship remains tightly contested among three teams separated by just 30 points.
For more details, check the full entry list and drivers participating across classes.
Images referenced are courtesy of Daily Sportscar and IMSA, with additional insights and updates available as the event unfolds.
