Lone Star Racing Announces Full-Season IMSA Commitment for 2027
Lone Star Racing is set to elevate its IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship presence by committing to a full-season program in 2027. The team will field the #80 Mercedes-AMG GT3 EVO across all endurance and sprint events, marking a significant step in its competitive journey.
Following a successful 2026 Michelin Endurance Cup, where Lone Star secured top-ten finishes in all five races—including fourth-place finishes at both the Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring and Motul Petit Le Mans—team principal AJ Petersen expressed enthusiasm about the transition. “We’re super excited to jump off our first full season in the WeatherTech Championship,” Petersen remarked. “This is what we’ve been working towards for years.”
Lone Star Racing, founded by Dan Knox, previously participated in select IMSA events from 2016 to 2019 before returning as an endurance competitor in 2024. The team has also established itself in the Intercontinental GT Challenge, particularly at the Indianapolis 8 Hour race.
In 2027, driving duties will be shared by Irish driver James Roe and 20-year-old Lin Hodenius from the Netherlands. Hodenius, who has previous experience in the FIA World Endurance Championship’s LMGT3 class, is optimistic about the upcoming season. “I think it is a good opportunity for me to grow and for the team as well,” he noted. Roe, who joined Lone Star after competing with Pratt Miller Motorsports in 2025, underscored the importance of consistency and building on past performances. “Having the opportunity to return, build consistency and compete at every round is incredibly motivating,” he stated.
The team’s impressive results in 2026 not only demonstrated their competitiveness but also contributed to Mercedes-AMG clinching the GTD Manufacturers’ Championship. Petersen acknowledged the strength of the Mercedes-AMG platform, emphasizing the collaboration’s potential for future success. He remarked, “It’s been good to have the season we’ve had… it’s another good opportunity with a proven platform.”
As the team prepares for its inaugural full-time IMSA campaign, both drivers are eager to translate their previous success into podium finishes throughout the upcoming season.
This strategic expansion aligns with Lone Star Racing’s goal of establishing a robust presence in North American sports car racing, paving the way for a competitive future in the series.
