IMSA Monterey 2025

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2025 RACE SCHEDULE

CURRENT EVENT: MONTEREY SPORTSCAR CHAMPIONSHP

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DAY TO N A I N T E R N AT I O N A L S P E E D WAY JA N UA RY 2 3 - 2 6 , 2 0 2 5 S E B R I N G I N T E R N AT I O N A L R AC E WAY MARCH 12-15, 2025 LO N G B E AC H S T R E E T C I R C U I T APRIL 11-12, 2025 W E AT H E R T E C H R AC E WAY L AG U N A S E C A M AY 9 - 1 1 , 2 0 2 5 DETROIT STREET CIRCUIT M AY 3 0 - 3 1 , 2 0 2 5 MID-OHIO SPORTS CAR COURSE JUNE 6-8, 2025

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WAT K I N S G L E N I N T E R N AT I O N A L JUNE 19-22, 2025 C A N A D I A N T I R E M OTO R S P O R T PA R K J U LY 1 1 - 1 3 , 2 0 2 5 R OA D A M E R I C A J U LY 3 1 - AU G U S T 3 , 2 0 2 5 V I R G I N I A I N T E R N AT I O N A L R AC E WAY AU G U S T 2 2 - 2 4 , 2 0 2 5 I N D I A N A P O L I S M OTO R S P E E DWAY SEPTEMBER 19-21, 2025 M I C H E L I N R AC E WAY R OA D AT L A N TA O CTO B E R 8 - 1 1 , 2 0 2 5

2025 MONTEREY SPORTSCAR CHAMPIONSHIP

CONTENTS 06

Facility map

08 Welcome IMSA fans: Ed Bennett & John Doonan 11 Welcome to the Monterey SportsCar Championship: Lauri Eberhart & Mel Harder 12

Weekend schedule

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Grand Marshal: Bobby Rahal

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Friends of Laguna Seca: Our vision for the future

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Mother’s Day weekend: fan activities

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Food & Drink: A culinary journey through the paddock

24 IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship: Full attack mode 32

A high-octane weekend: Exciting racing keeps the track hot

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IMSA Camel GT series 1976: Days of 49

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STEM drives the future

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“B” ROAD ARCHERY GENERAL CAMPING (NOT AVAILABLE ALL EVENTS)

ED BENNETT & JOHN DOONAN

DEAR IMSA FANS n behalf of the France Family, we are honored to welcome you back to historic WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, with the Monterey SportsCar Championship bringing an excellent weekend of sports car racing to the Monterey Peninsula.

The trip to WeatherTech Raceway features the first standard length race of two hours and 40 minutes for the 2025 IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship season, following the two endurance race events in Daytona and Sebring and a 100-minute street fight just down the California coast in Long Beach last month. The pinnacle of North American sports car competition greets WeatherTech Raceway’s legendary twists and turns, including its iconic Corkscrew, where IMSA has raced for several decades.

Three of the four WeatherTech Championship classes will be present on the 2.238-mile WeatherTech Raceway course. The Grand Touring Prototype (GTP) division and two GT classes, Grand Touring Daytona Pro (GTD PRO) and Grand Touring Daytona (GTD) are in action.

Most leading-edge GTP prototypes expected to race have a traditional internal combustion engine prepared by the participating global automobile manufacturers and pairs those

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engines with a common electrified hybrid powertrain to deliver higher output in a more sustainable fashion. Aston Martin’s new Valkyrie is the first of these cars built to the Le Mans Hypercar (LMH) specification and is set to race alongside four hybrid-electrified entries from Acura, BMW, Cadillac and Porsche, which speaks to the top-level convergence achieved across global sports car racing.

Our hugely popular GTD PRO and GTD class cars from nine different manufacturers resemble those you see on the streets but built to specific racing regulations. Entries from Aston Martin, BMW, Chevrolet, Ferrari, Ford, Lamborghini, Lexus, Mercedes-AMG and Porsche make up the grid across both classes and will shine in front of the Northern California audience, a region that loves its car culture.

Three additional IMSA-sanctioned series fill the paddock at WeatherTech Raceway.

The always-entertaining IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge races two hours on Saturday with its Grand Sport (GS) and Touring Car (TCR) classes. Our Lamborghini Super Trofeo North America and Mustang Challenge single-make championships complete the weekend with Lamborghini running two 50-minute sprint races and Mustang two 45-minute sprints.

Our fan-friendly, open paddock is designed to be as accommodating as possible. Be sure to get

your hands on one of our free Fan Guides located around the track, which provide a spotter’s guide of car illustrations and handy tidbits.

Plan to head to the paddock in the infield, behind pit lane, to get an up close-and-personal look at our full field and meet the drivers during the WeatherTech Championship driver autograph session Saturday afternoon.

And don’t miss your chance to get onto the grid during the prerace Fan Walk just minutes before the command to start engines prior to Saturday’s Michelin Pilot Challenge race and Sunday’s featured WeatherTech Championship race. The Fan Walk is open to every fan in attendance!

You’ll also notice digital displays on all WeatherTech Championship race cars. These inform you where each is running in its class throughout a race. Also, be sure to download the IMSA app for live Timing & Scoring,

onboard cameras and up-to-the-minute news and information.

Whenever you can’t be with us at the racetrack, be sure to tune into NBC Sports’ outstanding coverage. Sunday’s Monterey SportsCar Championship at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca airs live on network NBC at 3 p.m. ET, noon PT and local time, and also streams on Peacock. You can follow our official social media channels for more original content throughout the weekend and all season long.

Whether this is your first time attending an IMSA race or a regular WeatherTech Raceway attendee as part of your annual tradition, we are pleased to have you with us here in Monterey!

Thanks again for joining us this weekend!

Best regards, Ed Bennett / CEO John Doonan / President

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presented by

WIN THE WEEKEND IS BACK FOR SEASON 3 The highly popular YouTube docuseries returns for a third season, taking fans inside the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship. All episodes can be seen on IMSA’s YouTube channel including Seasons 1 and 2.

This year’s eight episodes focus on recurring personalities in the paddock to help fans engage with familiar faces. These characters will range from drivers to team owners to mechanics and IMSA personnel to members of the media who give fans an intimate look into the world of sportscar racing. All while covering the chase for the IMSA Weathertech SportsCar Championship.

LEARN MORE AT IMSA.COM

LAURI EBERHART & MEL HARDER

WELCOME TO THE MONTEREY SPORTSCAR CHAMPIONSHIP n behalf of Friends of Laguna Seca, we’re thrilled to welcome you to WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca for an action-packed weekend of IMSA racing. As proud stewards of this legendary venue, our team is dedicated to preserving its legacy while enhancing the fan experience, and we’re excited for you to see the energy and improvements taking shape throughout the park.

This weekend, IMSA’s WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, Michelin Pilot Challenge, Lamborghini Super Trofeo and Mustang Challenge are bringing exciting competition with top teams and drivers pushing the limits through the daunting Corkscrew. The passion of our fans is what makes this track truly special, and we’re honored to share the excitement with you.

Beyond the racing, we hope you’ll take a moment to explore the many new developments designed to enhance your visit—from hydration refill stations, refurbished scoring trylon and upgrades to the High-Speed Hospitality

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Suites to fun and interactive engagement opportunities like the Bingo Card Challenge and the #RaceDayHerWay signing wall. Whether you’re enjoying autograph sessions, our scenic campgrounds, hiking trails, or sampling local flavors, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

A heartfelt thank you to IMSA, the incredible teams, drivers, volunteers, and our dedicated staff who make this event possible. We’re also deeply grateful to WeatherTech and all our sponsors for their continued support in bringing this event to life.

We hope you have a fantastic race weekend and that you’ll return to experience even more events as we continue growing and improving this legendary raceway. Enjoy the races, explore the park, and most of all—have fun at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca!

Lauri Eberhart CEO, Friends of Laguna Seca Mel Harder President & General Manager, WRLS

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A FULL WEEKEND OF RACING ACTION FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2025 8:25 am - 8:55 am PRACTICE #1 MUSTANG CHALLENGE

12:10 pm - 12:40 pm PRACTICE #2 MUSTANG CHALLENGE

9:10 am - 10:10 am PRACTICE #1 MICHELIN CHALLENGE

1:00 pm - 2:00 pm PRACTICE #2 MICHELIN CHALLENGE

10:25 am - 11:10 am PRACTICE #1 LAMBORGHINI TROFEO

2:20 pm - 3:50 pm Practice #1 WeatherTech Championship (All Classes)

11:10 am - 12:10 pm Lunch 11:20 am - 11:55 am Media on-track activity (hot track)

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4:10 pm - 4:55 pm PRACTICE #2 LAMBORGHINI TROFEO

5:10 pm - 5:25 pm QUALIFYING MUSTANG CHALLENGE 5:40 pm - 5:55 pm QUALIFYING MICHELIN CHALLENGE TCR 6:00 pm - 6:15 pm QUALIFYING MICHELIN CHALLENGE GS 6:25 pm - 6:40 pm Cadillac Car Corral Laps (IMSA) 6:40 pm - 6:55 pm American Invitational Car Corral Laps (IMSA)

SATURDAY, MAY 10, 2025 8:00 am - 8:15 am QUALIFYING #1 LAMBORGHINI TROFEO

11:45 am - 12:25 pm PRE-RACE - OPEN GRID / FAN WALK PIT LANE - MICHELIN CHALLENGE

3:15 pm - 3:30 pm Qualifying - WeatherTech Championship (GTD - Any Driver)

8:20 am - 8:35 am QUALIFYING #2 LAMBORGHINI TROFEO

12:35 pm - 12:45 pm PRE-RACE - FORMATION LAPS MICHELIN CHALLENGE

3:40 pm - 3:55 pm Qualifying - WeatherTech Championship (GTD PRO - Any Driver)

8:45 am - 8:50 am PRE-RACE - MUSTANG CHALLENGE

12:45 pm - 2:45 pm RACE - WEATHERTECH RACEWAY LAGUNA SECA 120 FOR THE IMSA MICHELIN PILOT CHALLENGE 2 HOURS

4:10 pm - 4:25 pm Qualifying - WeatherTech Championship (GTP - Any Driver)

8:50 am - 9:35 am RACE #1 - MUSTANG CHALLENGE 45 MINUTES

4:40 pm - 4:45 pm PRE-RACE - LAMBORGHINI TROFEO

9:55 am - 11:25 am Practice #2 - WeatherTech Championship (All Classes)

2:00 pm - 2:30 pm Autograph Session WeatherTech Championship at Team Transporters in the Paddock

11:25 am - 12:25 pm Break / Pre-Race

2:50 pm - 3:15 pm POST-RACE - MICHELIN CHALLENGE

5:45 pm - 6:00 pm Ford / BMW Car Corral Laps (IMSA)

11:35 am - 11:50 am Porsche Car Corral Laps (IMSA)

2:50 pm - 3:05 pm Lamborghini Car Corral Laps (IMSA)

6:00 pm - 6:15 pm Hyundai Car Corral Laps (IMSA)

4:45 pm - 5:35 pm RACE #1 - LAMBORGHINI TROFEO 50 MINUTES

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SUNDAY, MAY 11, 2025 8:00 am - 8:15 am Corvette Car Corral Laps (IMSA) 8:25 am - 8:30 am PRE-RACE - MUSTANG CHALLENGE 8:30 am - 9:15 am RACE #2 - MUSTANG CHALLENGE 45 MINUTES 9:30 am - 9:35 am PRE-RACE - LAMBORGHINI TROFEO

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9:35 am - 10:25 am RACE #2 - LAMBORGHINI TROFEO 50 MINUTES

12:00 pm - 12:10 pm WeatherTech Championship Formation Laps

10:45 am - 12:00 pm WeatherTech Championship Recon Lap / Pre-Race

12:10 pm - 2:50 pm Race - IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship Of Monterey for the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship 2 Hours and 40 Minutes

11:00 am - 11:50 am WeatherTech Championship - Open Grid / Fan Walk - Pit Lane

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2025 IMSA MONTEREY SPORTSCAR CHAMPIONSHIP

THANK YOU

TO OUR FAMILY OF IMSA PARTNERS

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MEET YOUR GRAND MARSHAL: THREE-TIME INDYCAR CHAMPION AND INDIANAPOLIS 500 WINNER

Bobby Rahal

ne personality that is forever etched in WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca history is Robert “Bobby” Rahal. The three-time INDYCAR Champion won four consecutive INDYCAR races at Laguna Seca beginning in 1984. In recognition of his dominating performance, a section of the racing circuit was named for him in 2003: the acceleration zone from turns 6 through 7 approaching the Corkscrew is universally known as The Rahal Straight.

Rahal worked his way up through the racing ranks starting with the SCCA’s feeder series to Formula Atlantic and then onto European Formula Two. In an 18-year career spanning F1, Can-Am, Le Mans/ IMSA, and CART, Rahal notched three CART championships, including a win at the 1986 Indy 500, along with wins at the 1981 24 Hours of Daytona and the 1987 12 Hours of Sebring endurance races.

This will be a busy weekend for Rahal, who not only serves as the Grand Marshal for the Monterey SportsCar Championship, but also as team principal of Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing. Rahal will shift duties when the green flag flies to watch the nos. 24 and 25 BMW M Team RLL M Hybrid V8’s compete in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship.

“When I first came here in 1979, this place was hallowed ground to me,” Rahal recalled. “I fell in love with the place, it suited me and I suited it, and I had a number of great days here. I won my first professional race here (1979 Can-Am win), won four consecutive Champ Car races here, which nobody ever did and that means a lot to me.”

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FRIENDS OF LAGUNA SECA

Our vision for the future here is renewed energy at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca since Friends of Laguna Seca embarked on its 55-year Concession Agreement last August. The rising interest casts a promising new light on the historic raceway that modestly began in 1957 on the U.S. Army’s Fort Ord and quickly established itself as a worldwide destination.

Friends have been moving fast, and they’re just getting started. As the Capital

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Improvement Plan takes shape, several immediate needs are being addressed to elevate the guest experience.

Perhaps the most visible improvement this weekend is the renewed scoring trylon.

This was a much-needed upgrade that now features new LED video boards covering the entire structure to enhance sponsor signage and leaderboard readability for fans throughout the raceway.

Guests who are enjoying the High

Speed Hospitality Suites (formerly Pit Row Suites) will immediately be welcomed into a completely transformed environment with new furnishings, updated restrooms, elegant flooring and modern cabinetry.

New materials were adapted to enhance textures and assist with sound mitigation and viewing enjoyment.

Recent storms highlighted several problematic areas that required immediate attention. Drainage and run-off repair at Turn 2 was completed, along with the restoration of the Turn 5 driver’s left retaining wall, which had suffered significant erosion damage.

Visitors crossing the pedestrian tire bridge between Turns 3 and 4 will notice modest repairs and new branding from our friends at Tire Rack. This path between the bustling race paddock and the revitalized Promenade will provide a safe and convenient passageway.

Establishing relationships with area businesses has resulted in new food and catering enhancements. Friends believe in supporting local businesses and the blend will grow with every major event.

To learn more about Friends of Laguna Seca and become a Friend yourself in support of Laguna Seca’s revival and long-term future, visit FriendsofLagunaSeca.org.

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MOTHER’S DAY WEEKEND

Fan activities hat better way to kick off the 2025 season with a new initiative of Race Day Her Way on Mother’s Day weekend. It’s about celebrating not only women IN motorsport, but also women who love motorsport.

Among the many activities planned this weekend are a panel of influential women in motorsports that is hosted by Eva Gregory of Be Differential Podcast. There is a unique signing wall for fans to engage with and say why they enjoy motorsports in their own words, photo opportunities, driver autograph sessions and the always popular open grid walk.

And be sure to play BINGO that is happening throughout the park. Guests can find QR codes at various locations to cross off their personal cards for a chance to win!

Plan your visit to experience all WeatherTech Raceway has to offer each day of the Monterey SportsCar Championship. Here are just some of the many fan friendly highlights:

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WEDNESDAY, MAY 7

SATURDAY, MAY 10

5:00 pm - 7:00 pm Monterey SportsCar Championship Street Party 100 Main Street, Downtown Salinas

9:00 am - 10:00 am Lattes with Lauri Get to know Friends of Laguna Seca CEO Lauri Eberhart at Captain & Stoker in Paddock Plaza

FRIDAY, MAY 9 10:50 am Participate in the Women in Motorsports NA Group Photo Paddock Stage 11:10 am - 12:10 pm The Coffis Brothers Performance Paddock Stage

9:45 am - 10:20 am BMX Stunt Show Promenade 10:00 am - 4:00 pm Go Karts Test your skills and race this fun track Lakebed near Turn 2 11:25 am - 11:45 am #RaceDayHerWay Panel with prominent guest speakers sharing their experiences in motorsports. Engaging for motorsport fans Paddock Stage

11:45 am - 12:25 pm Pre-Race - Open Grid/ Fan Walk Pit Lane – IMSA Michelin Challenge Pit Lane – Starting Grid

SUNDAY, MAY 11 (HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY!) 9:00 am - 9:35 am BMX Stunt Show Promenade

1:15 am - 1:50 pm BMX Stunt Show Promenade

10:00 am - 4:00 pm Go Karts Lakebed near Turn 2

2:00 pm - 2:30 pm Driver Autograph Session – WeatherTech SportsCar Championship Paddock – Team Transporters

11:10 am - 12:05 pm Open Grid Walk on Pit Lane IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship This is your chance to get up close to the cars and drivers before they fire up and head to the race start

2:50 am - 3:15 pm BMX Stunt Show Promenade

12:00 noon Free Back Backs For first 1,000 visitors who fill the Start/Finish Grandstands 12:45 am - 1:20 pm BMX Stunt Show Promenade 2:00 pm - 2:35 pm BMX Stunt Show Promenade

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FOOD & DRINK

A culinary journey through the paddock acing isn’t the only thing that fuels a great weekend at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca—the incredible culinary diversity found in the paddock is just as much a part of the experience. From locally owned, chef-driven cuisine to international flavors and comfort food classics, the variety of food options at the Monterey SportsCar Championship ensures there’s something delicious for everyone.

All of our food vendors are passionate about serving up the best culinary experience alongside top-tier customer service. Their popularity speaks for itself, so be prepared for lines at peak times—but trust us, the wait is worth it! Come hungry, explore the flavors, and enjoy the best food you’ll ever find at a raceway.

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LOCAL FLAVORS AT BEAR & FLAG ROADSIDE

For a true California-inspired feast, look no further than Bear & Flag Roadside.

This permanent paddock favorite is the brainchild of Chef Todd Fisher, whose butcher skills and love for local ingredients shine through in every bite. Whether you’re craving a tri-tip sandwich, a fresh and vibrant Rainbow Bowl, or just want to sip on a carefully curated selection of local beer and wine, this is the spot to experience the best of Monterey County’s fresh, chef-driven cuisine.

SOUTHERN COMFORT AT LIZETTA’S SOUTHERN SOUL FOOD & BBQ

If you’re looking for bold flavors that feed the soul, head over to Lizetta’s Southern Soul Food & BBQ. This womanowned eatery is the perfect way to celebrate #RaceDayHerWay while indulging in Po’boys, popcorn shrimp, and red beans & rice. With every dish made with passion and deep Southern roots, Lizetta’s brings a taste of the South right here to Laguna Seca.

A BURST OF MEXICAN FLAVORS AT TASTE OF MEXICO A traditional favorite at Laguna Seca is Taste of Mexico that serves up the freshest tacos, and burritos with flavorful salsa. They will have multiple locations to meet fans wherever they are enjoying the races: Paddock, Corkscrew, and the new Start/Finish Grandstand area.

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BRATWURST USA: A GERMAN TRADITION WITH CLASSIC PAIRINGS

Bratwurst and motorsports go hand in hand, and Bratwurst USA delivers the authentic experience with an array of beef, pork, veal, and flavored bratwursts. Pair yours with potato salad, sauerkraut, and of course, a giant pretzel to complete the ultimate European-inspired race day meal.

Here’s to German engineering!

AUTHENTIC MEXICAN CUISINE AT LUPITA’S CARNITAS

California is home to some of the best Mexican food. Of course there are so many great Mexican cuisines to be found throughout the event, but we have to mention Lupita’s Carnitas for their traditional crispy pork rinds to a full selection of breakfast and lunch items.

Lupita’s serves up traditional Mexican flavors that will have you coming back for more. Whether you’re craving a hearty morning breakfast burrito or a mid-day taco fix, this is the place to get It.

FIRE & SLICE: THE ULTIMATE WOOD-FIRED PIZZA

Lastly, but certainly not least, is everyone’s favorite cuisine: pizza, and Fire & Slice takes it to the next level with handmade, wood-fired perfection. With nine different pizzas to choose from, this is the go-to spot for anyone looking to grab a quick, delicious slice while soaking in the race day atmosphere.

FULL ATTA IMSA WEATHERTECH SPORTSCAR CHAMPIONSHIP

GTP, GTD PRO, GTD cars set to tackle WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca

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he IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship is set to complete its two-race California swing with its annual trip to WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca in Monterey. North America’s premier sports car championship brings together a combination of technological advancement, variety and high volume of manufacturers.

For more than two decades, IMSA has made an annual trip out to WeatherTech Raceway. More than 30 cars are expected across three IMSA classes, Grand Touring Prototype (GTP) and the two GT classes, Grand Touring Daytona Pro (GTD PRO) and Grand Touring Daytona (GTD) for the twohour, 40-minute race starting Sunday, May 11 at 12:10 p.m. PT and local time around WeatherTech Raceway’s iconic 2.238-mile, 11-turn road course.

IMSA has gone from strength-tostrength in recent years, particularly in the two years since GTP was introduced.

Nearly all cars feature a hybrid-electrified power storage system that’s mated to a traditional internal combustion engine, which provides the necessary horsepower for these state-of-the-art rocket ships in a more sustainable fashion.

The first manufacturer to build its race car off an existing road car within the top-class specifications is Aston Martin, which brings its new Valkyrie hypercar to WeatherTech Raceway for the first time.

Aston Martin joins Acura, BMW, Cadillac and Porsche in IMSA’s top class racing at WeatherTech Raceway, with at least 11 entries expected to conquer the Corkscrew.

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‘ S PEEDS AND GRIP HAVE INCREASED WITH IMSA CARS RUNNING SEVERAL SECONDS QUICKER’

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Since WeatherTech Raceway underwent a successful repave prior to 2024, speeds and grip have increased with IMSA cars running several seconds quicker last year than in previous years. The track is still unique on the IMSA schedule with its sand-heavy presence.

The Porsche Penske Motorsport No. 7 Porsche 963 won the first two rounds of the WeatherTech Championship season in IMSA’s two longest races at Daytona (24 hours) and Sebring (12), which left the fullseason pairing of Nick Tandy and Felipe Nasr ahead of their teammates in the points standings leaving Florida before the crosscountry voyage to Long Beach in mid-April before WeatherTech Raceway in mid-May. GTD boasts greater numbers with cars closer to day-to-day production models. The GTD PRO class is expected to feature at least 10 cars from seven manufacturers (BMW, Chevrolet, Ferrari, Ford, Lamborghini, Lexus and Porsche) and the GTD class should have at least 14 cars from nine manufacturers (the above seven, plus Aston Martin and Mercedes-AMG).

Built to international GT3 specifications, GTD PRO has no driver rating restrictions while the GTD class also reserves a spot for an FIA Silver- or Bronze-rated driver alongside the primary professional driver.

These Silver- or Bronze-rated drivers are often successful businesspeople who race part-time or younger, emerging talents with limited experience.

In GTD PRO, Ford Multimatic Motorsports claimed the first global victory for the Ford Mustang GT3 at Daytona while AO Racing’s “Rexy” Porsche won in

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‘ L AST YEAR FEATURED LATE-RACE DRAMA WITH THE NO. 6 PORSCHE EMERGING VICTORIOUS’

Sebring. AWA’s Corvette took a determined win in Daytona while Winward Racing’s Mercedes-AMG won in Sebring to vault into the GTD points lead.

Last year’s WeatherTech Raceway IMSA race featured late-race drama with the No. 6 Porsche emerging victorious overall, “Rexy” claiming its first IMSA victory in GTD PRO and the Winward Mercedes-AMG snatching a GTD victory over Turner Motorsport’s BMW. More than a dozen past WeatherTech Raceway overall or class winners are expected to compete in 2025.

The IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship of Monterey at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca from May 9-11 is the fourth event of the season. The 11-race season concludes with the traditional Motul Petit Le Mans at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta from Oct. 8-11.

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A HIGH-OCTANE WEEKEND

EXCITING RACING KEEPS THE TRACK HOT Monterey SportsCar Championship is set to be an adrenaline-pumping weekend. The excitement doesn’t stop at the main event though —three prominent series will also take to the track, delivering intense wheel-to-wheel competition across a variety of racing disciplines

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IMSA MICHELIN PILOT CHALLENGE:

PRODUCTION-BASED PERFORMANCE he IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge serves as a thrilling prelude to the WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, showcasing production-based sports cars that race in two competitive classes: Grand Sport (GS) and Touring Car (TCR). The GS class features high-performance GT4-spec machines from manufacturers such as BMW, Aston Martin, Audi, Porsche, McLaren, and Ford, while the TCR class highlights agile, front-wheel-drive touring cars from brands like Hyundai and Honda.

What sets the Michelin Pilot Challenge apart is its reputation for close-quarters and door-to-door racing. The battles on track are relentless, with teams and drivers strategically managing their cars over extended stints. At Laguna Seca’s challenging 2.238-mile circuit, the Michelin Pilot Challenge competitors will need to balance speed, tire conservation, and pit stop efficiency to claim victory.

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LAMBORGHINI SUPER TROFEO NORTH AMERICA:

ITALIAN FLAIR AND PRECISION RACING ringing the unmistakable bellow of V10 engines to Monterey, the Lamborghini Super Trofeo North America series is a must-watch spectacle. This onemake championship features the Huracán Super Trofeo EVO2, a purpose-built race car engineered for high-speed battles. The series offers a competitive platform for both professional and amateur drivers, leveling the playing field and putting driver skill on full display.

Laguna Seca’s famed Corkscrew and high-speed straights provide the perfect setting for these Lamborghini machines to unleash their full potential. Fans can expect breathtaking overtakes, daring braking maneuvers, and an unmatched display of Italian automotive excellence as these exotic race cars push the limits on track.

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MUSTANG CHALLENGE SERIES:

A NEW TRADITION WITH AMERICAN MUSCLE aking its first-ever appearance in Monterey, the Mustang Challenge Series is quickly solidifying its place in the IMSA race weekend lineup. Sanctioned by IMSA and organized by Ford Performance Racing School Motorsports, the series exclusively features the Mustang Dark Horse R, a track-ready iteration of Ford’s legendary pony car.

The Mustang Challenge is divided into two classes: Dark Horse and Dark Horse Legends, the latter reserved for bronzelevel drivers aged 45 and older. With each event consisting of two 45-minute sprint races, fans can expect plenty of action as these powerful machines thunder down the straights and navigate the technical corners of Laguna Seca. The debut of this series at Laguna Seca promises to deliver the kind of high-intensity racing that Mustang enthusiasts crave.

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IMSA CAMEL GT SERIES 1976

49 DAYS OF

WHEN THE RACERS MOILED FOR GOLD WORDS KERRY MORSE / PHOTOS MICHAEL KEYSER

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In Turn 1 at the start of the race, Michael Keyser, in his Chevrolet Monza, leads Al Holbert in a similar car, followed closely by Peter Gregg in his BMW CSL, Carl Shafer’s Camaro and the rest of the field

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Keyser leads Gregg at the top of the circuit heading towards the corkscrew

ays of 49” is a poem from the past, grounded in the “ goldfields of California’s Rush of 1849. It was later published in 1884’s “The Gold Seekers” and eventually took flight as a folk song, covered by Bob Dylan among many. And its message has never wavered: California continued to offer many roads to wealth and fame, including one quest that took place, it just so happens, 49 years ago, at Laguna Seca, on May 2, 1976.

That day’s gold seekers sought top of the podium, and the fights over that rich

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territory were fierce as drivers staked their claims in search of a win. It might be trite to call the California tracks of the 1970s as the Wild West of racing, but that doesn’t make it untrue.

Those were the days of The Monterey Triple Crown, when enthusiastic crowds were treated to expected hard and aggressive racing. IMSA’s Camel GT series always could be counted on to provide action reminiscent of the great days of the Trans Am, and Laguna’s layout seemed designed to reward elbows out.

Consider the exploits on that May day

of drivers Michael Keyser and Peter Gregg.

Keyser’s DeKon Monza started from pole but was eventually passed by Al Holbert’s new Monza—which set the stage for a bruising battle for second between Gregg’s No. 59 BMW and Keyser’s No. 1 Chevy.

The two drivers took turns slamming bodies resulting into a series of mutual spins that ended with Gregg claiming second and Keyser third. The behavior of the two gentlemen was rewarded with great applause from spectators and a post-race visit to race technical director Charlie Rainville.

Gregg punts Keyser in the Corkscrew (right) and then again at Turn 9, spinning him around. The combatants face off post race with Mr. Rainville supervising the discussion

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STEM DRIVES THE FUTURE AT THE MONTEREY SPORTSCAR CHAMPIONSHIP otorsports has always been a thrilling showcase of speed, precision, and competition— but it’s also a hub of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) innovation. From cutting-edge aerodynamics to race-day data analytics, STEM is at the heart of everything that drives racing forward as an ever-evolving sport. IMSA, with its 18 manufacturers and four different classes of race engineering, has embraced STEM as one of its core values. WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, has supported this endeavor, bringing together forward-thinking programs to inspire the next generation of engineers, mechanics, and industry professionals.

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Bringing STEM to Life with IMSA and Gainbridge The IMSA STEM program powered by Gainbridge and Konica Minolta is a gamechanger for high school students interested in motorsports. Through virtual IMSAbranded in-classroom modules and at-track activations, the program introduces young minds to the real-world applications of STEM in racing.

During the Monterey SportsCar Championship weekend, 30-35 local high school students will get a behind-the-scenes look at race operations, rotating through interactive stations where they’ll explore topics such as: • Tire science with Michelin engineers,

learning about tread, traction, and performance.

• Technical inspection procedures that ensure cars meet safety and performance standards.

• Data analytics used in race strategy and car optimization.

• Garage tours where students meet the engineers, mechanics, and drivers bringing the action to life.

Through this program, students are not only gaining knowledge but also seeing firsthand how STEM careers shape the future of motorsports.

Electrifying Careers with Bosch and WIMNA Diversity and innovation go hand in hand, and the Electrify Your Career in Motorsports workshop, hosted in partnership with Women in Motorsports North America (WIMNA) and Bosch, is helping break barriers for women in STEM. Held at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca May 9–11, this immersive

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two-day program is designed for college and university students interested in motorsports careers.

Participants will: • Network with industry leaders and professionals across various racing disciplines.

• Engage in behind-the-scenes tours of the paddock, garages, and manufacturer areas.

• Attend classroom sessions covering everything from engineering innovations to career pathways.

With Friends of Laguna Seca’s CEO, Lauri Eberhart, and as a founding board member of WIMNA, this initiative aligns with the raceway’s commitment to expanding opportunities for women in motorsports. Thanks to Bosch’s continued support, the program is growing each year, empowering more women to step into key industry roles.

Connecting STEM with the Community STEM education doesn’t stop at the raceway—WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca has also taken the message to the local community. In collaboration with the Hartnell College Foundation, team owner and racer Erin Voegel, and the raceway participated in the Salinas Family Day of Science, an event dedicated to sparking curiosity and innovation in young minds.

This initiative featured:

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• A sports car team owner and driver speaking to students about STEM’s role in racing.

• Raceway-provided tickets for winners of the California Tech Challenge semifinals, giving young innovators a chance to experience the sport up close.

By integrating motorsports into educational outreach, Laguna Seca is ensuring that the next generation sees racing not just as a sport but as a launchpad for careers in engineering, data science, and technology.

The Future is Now As the motorsports industry continues to evolve with hybrid technology, data-driven performance, and sustainable engineering, STEM education remains at the core of its progress. Thanks to programs like IMSA STEM powered by Gainbridge, Electrify Your Career with Bosch and WIMNA, and local partnerships like the Hartnell College Foundation, WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca is playing an active role in shaping the future of motorsports.

Whether you’re a student, a fan, or an industry veteran, the impact of STEM is everywhere this weekend. Take a moment to appreciate the engineering marvels on track and imagine the possibilities ahead— because the next great motorsports innovation might just be sparked right here at Laguna Seca.

‘ W HETHER YOU’RE A STUDENT, A FAN, OR AN INDUSTRY VETERAN, THE IMPACT OF STEM IS EVERYWHERE THIS WEEKEND’

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