DragonSpeed Unveils Special Livery at Laguna Seca
Laguna Seca, CA – DragonSpeed has launched a unique livery for their #81 GTD PRO Ferrari 296 GT3, designed by streetwear brand Anti Social Social Club (ASSC). The vibrant yellow and pink design, which was first showcased during a promotional photoshoot, will feature on the car driven by Albert Costa and Giacomo Altoe.
This collaboration marks ASSC’s continued involvement in motorsport, having previously partnered with Formula 1 and the Gran Turismo video game series.
Track Evolution Affects Race Strategy
Drivers are adjusting to the resurfaced WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, which was repaved nearly two years ago. Sebastian Priaulx from Ford Multimatic Motorsports noted the track has deteriorated since testing, impacting grip levels significantly. “The grip… wasn’t there,” Priaulx commented, emphasizing that tire management will be crucial this race.
Robby Foley from Turner Motorsport added that the previous low tire degradation experienced is no longer the case, making track evolution a critical factor over the race weekend.
Action Express Racing Changes Chassis
In a strategic move, Action Express Racing has switched from chassis #19 to #11 for the Laguna Seca event. Director Chris Mitchum explained that chassis #19 will serve as a backup and highlighted their intent to diversify their fleet’s performance through this change.
Pilot Challenge Qualifying Highlights
In the Michelin Pilot Challenge, Sean McAlister secured pole position for Saturday’s race in the #39 CarBahn with Peregrine Racing BMW M4 GT4 EVO, clocking in at 1:29.364. He narrowly edged out Moisey Uretsky’s #44 McLaren Artura GT4 by just 0.009 seconds.
The TCR class saw Mark Wilkins claim pole in the #33 Brian Herta Autosport Hyundai Elantra N TCR with a time of 1:30.245, marking the team’s third consecutive pole of the season.
Driver Changes and Special Initiatives
Matthew Brabham has joined CDR Valkyrie as a driver for the weekend, replacing Amir Haleem. His extensive racing background encompasses LMP2 and Stadium Super Trucks, bringing versatility to the team.
Additionally, two entries in the Michelin Pilot Challenge will bear special liveries as part of the Racing to End Alzheimer’s campaign. The #31 Audi RS 3 LMS and #19 Ford Mustang GT4 will carry names of individuals affected by Alzheimer’s, with proceeds dedicated to raising awareness and funds for research.
Conclusion
As the race weekend unfolds at Laguna Seca, teams will contend not only with competitive pressures but also with the nuances of tire management due to evolving track conditions. The community spirit is palpable with initiatives such as Racing to End Alzheimer’s providing a poignant backdrop to the excitement of motorsport.
