United Turn Around Tricky Sebring Start To Dominant One-Two LMP2 Finish

Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring: United Autosports Secures First LMP2 Victory

The #2 United Autosports ORECA, piloted by Phil Fayer, Hunter McElrea, and Mikkel Jensen, clinched a hard-fought victory in the LMP2 class at the Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring, marking the team’s inaugural win at this historic event.

After a disappointing 10th place finish at Daytona, the crew exhibited resilience, coming from behind after overcoming early penalties and strategy challenges. The race began with Fayer in eighth position. He navigated a clean start, but the team was hampered by a poorly timed caution at their first scheduled pit stop, leading to a Stop +60-second penalty instead of a quick splash of fuel.

These challenges pushed the #2 to the back of the field for three hours. However, the team made strategic calls during caution periods, allowing them to unlap themselves. With Fayer completing his mandated drive time while laps down, McElrea later rejoined the race, advancing into the top five. A full-course yellow with four hours remaining placed the team back on the lead lap.

Mikkel Jensen took over driving duties and closed in on the #99 AO Racing car. Over subsequent pit cycles, McElrea emerged to challenge for the lead as Jensen prepared for the final stint. When racing resumed with an hour and a half remaining, Jensen maintained a slim lead over teammate Paul Di Resta in the #22 car.

The concluding hour saw the United Autosports cars matched in pace, trading positions but maintaining a close distance. Despite a late caution and a necessary pit stop for the #22, Jensen crossed the finish line 1.2 seconds ahead, securing the victory.

Post-race, Fayer remarked, “The race started a little difficult, but I loved every minute behind the wheel. Sebring is such a special track.” Jensen reflected on the significance of the win, “It’s just a good win on top of a tough Daytona,” highlighting the unique challenges of Sebring’s evolving track conditions.

Both drivers, along with McElrea, expressed gratitude for their team’s efforts, and the #22’s runner-up finish underscored a successful outing for United Autosports. Looking ahead, the LMP2 class will return at Watkins Glen International from June 25-28 for the Sahlen’s Six Hours of the Glen, where they aim to defend last year’s victory with the #22.