Technical Infringements Lead to Stop-and-Go for Three LMP2 Teams
IMSA has suspended three ORECA 07-Gibson LMP2 entries—Tower Motorsports (#8), Era Motorsport (#18), and Pratt Miller Motorsports (#73)—for a duration of 60 minutes during Test Session 3 due to technical non-compliance. All three teams were found to have unapproved sensors, which breaches Article 22.7 regarding homologation standards. IMSA emphasized that adherence to approved components and configurations is crucial for maintaining competitive equity within the series.
Ross Chastain Observes IMSA Operations
NASCAR Cup Series competitor Ross Chastain visited the Action Express Racing setup, gleaning insights from the team dynamics. “Seeing the behind-the-scenes action—like quick driver changes—offers valuable lessons,” Chastain remarked. He expressed interest in competing at the Rolex 24 in the future, highlighting the distinct challenges and differences between NASCAR and IMSA protocols.
Future Aspirations for McLaughlin and Power
Scott McLaughlin is eager to participate in the Spa 24 Hours, contingent on his racing schedule. “I’d race anything. I don’t care,” he stated regarding his enthusiasm for sportscar endurance events. His former teammate Will Power echoed similar ambitions, aiming for the Suzuka 1000km alongside a return to the Indianapolis 8 Hour. Power has demonstrated competitive prowess, setting the fastest time in the GTD PRO category over this weekend.
Callum Ilott’s Double Duty Challenges
Callum Ilott is preparing for a demanding 2026 with a full-time ride in the IMSA GTD class alongside Wright Motorsports while also aiming to continue in the IndyCar Series. His commitment includes 27 races across 26 weekends, with the exception of overlapping events. “It’s going to be tough,” Ilott acknowledged about managing both series, but he remains optimistic about the experience.
Maintenance and Grid Updates
During Test Session 3, the #77 AO Racing Porsche 911 GT3 R halted on track, resulting in a red flag. The team successfully completed a full engine change, ensuring the car returned in time for the night session. Additionally, the opening round of the VP Racing SportsCar Challenge has seen an increase in entries to 22, featuring Mirco Schultis in LMP3 and Courtney Crone representing GSX.
Key Results:
- Schultis finished ninth overall, fourth among Bronze Cup drivers.
- Crone secured seventh in GSX despite late-race setbacks.
Image Credit: IMSA
