The IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship roared to life this weekend with a critical preseason test at Daytona International Speedway. Teams and drivers across the grid seized their first opportunity to adjust to new equipment, team lineups, and strategies for the 2025 season. With significant shifts in the GTP class and the introduction of groundbreaking machinery, this test marked the beginning of what promises to be a thrilling year in sports car racing.
Meyer Shank Racing Returns with a Vengeance
Meyer Shank Racing (MSR) is back in the spotlight after a yearlong hiatus from the WeatherTech Championship. Reunited with Acura and Honda Racing Corporation (HRC), MSR is fielding two GTP entries for the first time. Co-owner Michael Shank is optimistic:
“The earth is on the right axis,” Shank said. “We’ve got the right team, and we’re ready to compete for a championship.”
The No. 60 Acura ARX-06, driven by Colin Braun and Tom Blomqvist, delivered an impressive lap time of 1m35.90s, setting the pace in Friday’s afternoon session. Meanwhile, Renger van der Zande and Nick Yelloly piloted the newly added No. 93 car, benefiting from a collaborative engineering approach between HRC US and MSR’s in-house team.
Wayne Taylor Racing Goes All-In with Cadillac
Wayne Taylor Racing (WTR) embarks on a new chapter, returning to its roots with Cadillac as a factory-backed team. The squad boasts a powerhouse lineup: Filipe Albuquerque and Ricky Taylor will team up in the No. 10 Cadillac V-Series.R, while Jordan Taylor and Louis Deletraz will share the No. 40 car.
With deep roots in Cadillac’s IMSA success and an expanded technical capability, WTR is positioned to be a championship contender.
“This partnership with Cadillac feels like coming home,” said Ricky Taylor. “We’re ready to make a statement in 2025.”
Aston Martin’s Valkyrie Makes IMSA Debut
The No. 23 Aston Martin Valkyrie, built to FIA Le Mans Hypercar (LMH) specifications, turned heads during its first IMSA-sanctioned test. Representing Aston Martin and the Heart of Racing team, the Valkyrie completed 96 laps, steadily improving its pace throughout the day.
“This is the realization of a dream,” said team principal Ian James. “We’re excited to not only compete in IMSA but also take on the top class.”
The Valkyrie’s participation in the test reflects IMSA’s effort to integrate LMH platforms into the GTP class alongside the LMDh cars. Aston Martin has not yet announced when the car will make its competitive debut, but its progress at Daytona signals exciting potential.
Earl Bamber Joins Cadillac Whelen
Cadillac Whelen has also reshuffled its lineup, bringing in Earl Bamber to partner with Jack Aitken. Fresh off a stint in the FIA World Endurance Championship, Bamber is eager to return to the IMSA paddock.
“This is a golden era for sports car racing,” Bamber said. “The competition level is incredible, and I’m thrilled to be part of it.”
Testing Notes: A Busy Weekend at Daytona
- Night Testing: GTP and LMP2 cars tested under the lights Saturday evening, a critical session for fine-tuning setups for the grueling Rolex 24 at Daytona.
- GTD and GTD PRO: The GT classes joined the prototypes on Saturday and will take the track exclusively on Sunday, continuing their preparations for 2025.
Looking Ahead to 2025
With bold new lineups, cutting-edge technology, and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of motorsport, the 2025 IMSA season promises to deliver unparalleled excitement. Daytona’s preseason test has set the stage for fierce competition, making it clear that every team is eager to leave their mark on the upcoming campaign.