AO Racing Reveals Elite Lineup for 2026 IMSA Season with Tandy and King
AO Racing has unveiled an impressive driver lineup for the 2026 IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, featuring Nick Tandy and Harry King in the #77 Porsche 911 GT3 R (992.2). They will compete full-time, joined by Alessio Picariello for the Michelin Endurance Cup.
Tandy, a seasoned competitor, joins AO Racing following a successful stint with Porsche Penske Motorsport, where he captured major accolades including victories at Daytona and Sebring, culminating in the “Tandy Slam.” He replaces Laurin Heinrich, who transitions to a part-time role with Porsche Penske in the #7 Porsche 963.
Tandy expressed enthusiasm about joining the team: “AO Racing has proven to be one of the most popular, friendly, yet fiercely competitive teams within the sportscar paddocks… I’ve known both Harry and Alessio for a while now. Both are exceptionally fast and dedicated professionals.”
Harry King, entering his first full IMSA season, boasts a strong 2025 campaign, having clinched the GT World Challenge Europe Endurance Cup in the Gold Cup class. “I’m delighted to be partnering up with AO Racing… It’s a great combination of drivers and team, I have a good feeling,” said King.
Picariello, returning for endurance races, highlighted the expectation for redemption following last season’s mixed results. “We were left with a bitter feeling after Daytona, so I’m looking forward to sharing the car with Nick and Harry this year and putting things right,” he stated.
Team Principal Gunnar Jeannette expressed confidence in the new lineup: “We think this lineup has the perfect combination of speed and experience to allow us to fight for the GTD PRO Championship.”
AO Racing heads into its third season with the Porsche 911 GT3 R, building on a championship-winning performance in 2024 and notable class victories in 2025. The 2026 campaign kicks off at Daytona, where the new Porsche GT3 R Evo is set to make its debut.
