Noaker Claims Pole for Mustang Challenge Le Mans Invitational
Robert Noaker solidified his stronghold in the Mustang Challenge Le Mans Invitational by dominating qualifying in the #13 Ford Mustang Dark Horse R. On a partially drying track, Noaker clocked a fastest lap of 4:21.958, securing pole position with a 1.222-second advantage over Cameron McLeod, who posted a time of 4:23.180. Qualifying was cut short by a red flag with 17 minutes remaining.
The reigning 2024 Mustang Challenge champion, Noaker has consistently led throughout all practice and qualifying sessions, reflecting his mastery of the track. “We knew some people that have run here and they told us what the grip level would be like,” Noaker commented. “So we took a stab at a setup, and the funny thing is, I think we pretty well nailed it right from getting here.”
In addition to McLeod’s second place, Sam Paley emerged third with a lap of 4:23.587 in the #26 Sam Paley Racing Mustang. Marco Signoretti, David Wall, and Matt Nicoll-Jones rounded out the top six.
In the Dark Horse Legends category, Dan McKeever claimed the fastest time with 4:25.964, positioning him ninth overall. He surpassed Alex Bachoura, who finished 11th with a time of 4:26.301.
Tanner Foust led the Dark Horse Stars category, securing 13th overall with a best lap of 4:27.054, ahead of actor and NASCAR driver Frankie Muniz in 16th.
Nearly 40 drivers will compete in Race 1, set for 11 a.m. local time on Friday, with coverage available for streaming on the Ford Performance YouTube channel.
