Laguna Seca

The IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship returns to WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca for the IMSA Monterey SportsCar Championship, also known as the Motul Course de Monterey. This endurance race brings together multiple classes of sports cars at one of California's premier road courses. The event features the main championship race plus supporting series including the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge, Lamborghini Super Trofeo, and Mustang Challenge.

The Circuit at Laguna Seca

WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca sits in Monterey, California. The circuit ranks among the top road courses globally. The track features the famous Corkscrew turn, a downhill left-right chicane with a dramatic elevation change. This sequence tests driver skill and car setup. The circuit layout provides multiple challenging corners and elevation changes that make it a favorite among drivers and teams.

Race Classes and Format

The Monterey SportsCar Championship runs for 2 hours and 40 minutes. Four classes compete simultaneously on track during the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship race.

Grand Touring Prototype (GTP)

The GTP class represents the premier category in the series. Manufacturers including Acura, BMW, Cadillac, and Porsche develop cutting-edge hybrid prototypes for this class. These cars combine internal combustion engines with electric power units to create advanced racing machines.

Le Mans Prototype 2 (LMP2)

The LMP2 class uses spec Gibson GK428 V8 engines across all entries. This class provides a prototype racing option with controlled costs through common technical regulations.

GT Daytona Pro (GTD Pro)

GTD Pro features professional drivers in production-based GT cars from global manufacturers. The class operates under a Balance of Performance system to ensure competitive racing.

GT Daytona (GTD)

The GTD class mirrors GTD Pro regulations but allows Pro-Am driver lineups. This enables a mix of professional and amateur drivers to compete together.

Expected Participants

Team entries and driver lineups will be confirmed closer to the race. The GTP class should feature entries from Acura, BMW, Cadillac, and Porsche. Drivers who compete in IMSA include Felipe Nasr, Kevin Estre, Frederik Vesti, Dries Vanthoor, Alex Palou, Julien Andlauer, Laurin Heinrich, Jack Aitken, Earl Bamber, and Robert Wickens.

Technical Regulations

The IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship maintains diverse technical rules across its classes. The GTP class showcases the highest level of sports car racing technology. Manufacturers develop hybrid systems that integrate seamlessly with combustion engines. All LMP2 entries must use the Gibson GK428 V8 engine. The GT classes feature production-based cars modified for racing. Balance of Performance adjustments ensure close competition among different manufacturers.

Racing History at Laguna Seca

Sports car racing in Monterey began in 1950 on the roads of Pebble Beach, California. The races moved to the purpose-built Laguna Seca Raceway in 1957. The event has been part of several major championships over the decades. These include the SCCA National Sports Car Championship, the United States Road Racing Championship, and the IMSA GT Championship. From 1999 to 2013, it formed a key part of the American Le Mans Series. That series merged with the Rolex Sports Car Series in 2014 to create what is now the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship.

Fan Experience

The IMSA Monterey SportsCar Championship offers fans access to the paddock area. Spectators can view the cars and teams up close during the weekend. Autograph sessions with drivers take place throughout the event. The pre-race Grid Walk on pit lane allows fans to see the cars before they take the green flag. Cadillac V-Club members receive exclusive hospitality experiences, including a car corral and trackside suite access.

Multi-Class Racing Action

The race at Laguna Seca showcases the unique format of IMSA competition. Four classes race on track at the same time. This creates multiple battles throughout the field. Faster prototype cars must navigate through GT traffic. Teams must execute strategy for fuel, tires, and driver changes. The multi-class format adds layers of complexity to the racing. Different manufacturers compete for class victories across all categories. This format has defined sports car racing in North America for decades and continues to provide competitive racing at Laguna Seca.