Wickens Return Highlights IMSA Grand Prix of Long Beach, Vanier Makes Debut
The IMSA Grand Prix of Long Beach is set to welcome Robert Wickens back to the WeatherTech SportsCar Championship with DXDT Racing, a significant storyline in this year’s event. However, attention should also be directed to Canadian driver Zachary Vanier, who is making his first IMSA start with Pfaff Motorsports today.
At just 22 years old, Vanier has progressed rapidly through the ranks of motorsport, notably winning the 2020 Canadian Touring Car Championship TCR title and, more recently, securing the 2023 GT3 Cup Pro-Am championship in the Porsche Sprint Challenge North America on his first attempt. His history with Pfaff Motorsports, a team that provided him critical support throughout his career, highlights his strong preparation for this debut.
“I feel like I’ve been knocking on the door of this for a few years now,” Vanier remarked. He acknowledges Pfaff’s pivotal role in his development as a driver, stating, “They’ve been very influential in my career… helped me make those tough, key decisions to continue the progression.”
Vanier is also breaking new ground by being the first non-factory driver to pilot the Lamborghini Temerario GT3. “That shows a lot of belief… regarding the team aspect, but also the manufacturer aspect,” he commented, expressing pride in contributing to its development alongside established drivers.
Despite having only one previous race weekend in a GT3 car at Sonoma, Vanier emphasizes his adaptability and the team’s support in preparing him for Long Beach, where he will start ninth in class.
Looking forward, Vanier aims for championship success in the GT World Challenge, stating his aspirations for the upcoming Indy 8 Hour in October. “I think we have the resources to do it,” he concluded, signaling his focus firmly on the challenges ahead in Long Beach and beyond.
Key Information:
- Wickens returns to the WeatherTech Championship.
- Vanier’s Debut: First IMSA race with Pfaff Motorsports.
- Championship Background: Canadian Touring Car Champion and 2023 GT3 Cup Pro-Am champion.
- Lamborghini Temerario GT3: First non-factory driver.
- Starting Position: 9th in class at Long Beach.
The race promises to be both competitive and indicative of emerging talent in the series.
