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Next week, the 2024 IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship will reach its thrilling conclusion at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta, the venue hosting the annual Motul Petit Le Mans that marks the end of the season.
The pre-event entry list features a complete field of 54 cars, competing across four classes. The championships for both teams and drivers in all categories remain undecided. This also applies to the IMSA Michelin Endurance Cup, as this race is the final of five endurance events on the 2024 calendar.
Live coverage of the first hours of the 10-hour race will be provided by NBC, starting at noon ET on Saturday, October 12. Additionally, Peacock will stream the entire race until the conclusion, including post-race interviews shortly after 10 p.m.
Here’s what you need to know before the season finale.
Fast Facts
Motul Petit Le Mans
Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta – Braselton, Georgia
October 9-12, 2024
Race Day/Time: Saturday, October 12 – 12:10 p.m. ET
NBC Network Coverage: LIVE – Noon-3 p.m.
Peacock Streaming Coverage: LIVE – Complete coverage beginning at noon in the U.S.; International feed will be available on IMSA.tv and YouTube.com/IMSAOfficial (outside the U.S.)
Live Qualifying Stream: Friday, October 11 – 3:20-4:30 p.m. ET on Peacock (in the U.S.) and IMSA.tv (outside the U.S.)
IMSA Radio: Select sessions will be broadcast live on IMSA.com and RadioLeMans.com; SiriusXM’s live race coverage starts at Noon on Saturday, October 12 (XM 206, Web/App 996, local radio 98.1 FM)
Circuit Type: 2.54-mile, 12-turn road course
Classes Competing: Grand Touring Prototype (GTP), Le Mans Prototype 2 (LMP2), Grand Touring Daytona Pro (GTD PRO), Grand Touring Daytona (GTD)
Race Length: Ten hours
Track Social Media:
Event Hashtags: #IMSA, #MotulPetitLeMans
WeatherTech Championship Track Records
GTP: Sebastien Bourdais, Cadillac V-Series.R, 1:10.917 / 128.939 mph, October 2023 (DPi track record: Dane Cameron, Acura ARX-05, 1:08.412 / 133.660 mph, October 2020)
LMP2: Colin Braun, ORECA LMP2 07, 1:10.634 / 129.455 mph, October 2020
GTD PRO: Jack Hawksworth, Lexus RC F GT3, 1:18.835 / 115.988 mph, September 2022
GTD: Madison Snow, BMW M4 GT3, 1:19.118 / 115.573“`html
Racing Powered by USRT Lamborghini Huracán GT3 EVO2
Storylines
- Championships in All Classes Still Ongoing: No lead is secure in the point races across the four WeatherTech Championship classes. In the GTP category, the No. 7 Porsche Penske Motorsport Porsche 963 is ahead of its teammate, the No. 6 Porsche, by 124 points. Although numerous point scenarios exist, finishing fourth or better will ensure the No. 7 secures the championship. Similarly, in LMP2, the No. 52 Inter Europol by PR1 Mathiasen Motorsports ORECA LMP2 07 holds a 98-point advantage, where a third-place finish will clinch the title. The No. 77 AO Racing Porsche 911 GT3 R in GTD PRO also boasts a 99-point lead and can claim the championship by finishing third as well. To finalize the championship in the GTD class, the No. 57 Winward Racing Mercedes-AMG GT3 needs to secure a 14th place finish or better, which is challenging given the competitive 20-car field.
- IMSA Michelin Endurance Cup Honors on the Line too: The team and driver titles for the IMSA Michelin Endurance Cup are also still up for grabs, with points awarded at the four-, eight-, and ten-hour marks of the race. The current frontrunners include the No. 7 Porsche Penske Motorsport Porsche 963 in GTP, a tie between the No. 11 TDS Racing ORECA LMP2 07 and the No. 52 Inter Europol by PR1 Mathiasen Motorsports ORECA in LMP2, the No. 1 Paul Miller Racing BMW M4 GT3 in GTD PRO, and the No. 57 Winward Racing Mercedes-AMG GT3 in GTD.
- Trueman-Akin Honors Still in the Balance: The Jim Trueman Bronze Cup in LMP2 and the Bob Akin Bronze Cup in GTD remain competitive, with the top Bronze-rated driver from each category vying for an esteemed invitation to compete at next year’s 24 Hours of Le Mans. Currently, Nick Boulle (No. 52 Inter Europol by PR1 Mathiasen Motorsports ORECA) is leading the Trueman standings in LMP2, while Orey Fidani (No. 13 AWA Chevrolet Corvette Z06 GT3.R) tops the Akin standings in GTD.
Who’s Hot?
- Turner Motorsport BMW: The No. 96 BMW M4 GT3, piloted by Patrick Gallagher and Robby Foley, has achieved finishes of first, fourth, and third in their last three GTD races. Although they may not be able to catch the leading No. 57 Winward Racing Mercedes, the Turner team is certainly making them work hard for the class title.
- Korthoff/Preston Mercedes: Similarly, the No. 32 Korthoff/Preston Motorsports Mercedes-AMG GT3 has achieved a win and a third-place finish in its last two outings in GTD. Although out of championship contention, the No. 32 is firmly in third place in the standings.
Who’s Good Here?
- Nick Tandy: If the No. 6 Porsche 963 hopes to catch its sibling“`html
qvist (2): DPi – 2022; GTP – 2023
Matt Campbell (2): GTLM – 2020, 2021
Ryan Dalziel (2): PC – 2012; P – 2017
Mario Farnbacher (2): GTD – 2022
Oliver Jarvis (2): DPi – 2021, 2022
Bryan Sellers (2): GT – 2013; GTLM – 2014
Daniel Serra (2): GTD – 2018; GTLM – 2019
Madison Snow (2): GTC – 2013; GTD – 2015
Jordan Taylor (2): P – 2014, 2018
Tony Vilander (2): GT – 2012; GTLM – 2016
Jarett Andretti (1): LMP3 – 2022
Scott Andrews (1): LMP3 – 2021
Ben Barnicoat (1): GTD PRO – 2022
Matthew Bell (1): GTD – 2014
Sebastien Bourdais (1): P – 2015
Gianmaria Bruni (1): GT – 2011
Josh Burdon (1): LMP3 – 2022
Gabby Chaves (1): LMP3 – 2022
Roman De Angelis (1): GTD – 2021
Louis Deletraz (1): LMP2 – 2022
Connor De Phillippi (1): GTD – 2017
Pipo Derani (1): DPi – 2019
Scott Dixon (1): DPi – 2020
Robby Foley (1): GTD – 2019
Felipe Fraga (1): LMP3 – 2021
Bijoy Garg (1): LMP3 – 2023
Misha Goikhberg (1): GTD – 2023
Ross Gunn (1): GTD – 2021
Ben Hanley (1): LMP2 – 2023
Jack Hawksworth (1): GTD PRO – 2022
Mathieu Jaminet (1): GTLM – 2021
Mikkel Jensen (1): LMP2 – 2020
Daniel Juncadella (1): GTD PRO – 2023
Ben Keating (1): GTD – 2016
Andy Lally (1): GTC – 2010
Kyle Marcelli (1): PC – 2013
Christopher Mies (1): GTD – 2017
Dirk Mueller (1): GT – 1999
Felipe Nasr (1): DPi – 2019
Alessandro Pier Guidi (1): GTLM – 2019
Rui Pinto de Andrade (1): LMP2 – 2022
Gar Robinson“`html
(1): GTD – 2019
Kyle Marcelli (1): PC – 2012
Dirk Mueller (1): GT – 1999
Daniel Serra (1): GTD – 2018
Nick Tandy (1): GTLM – 2014
Steven Thomas (1): LMP3 – 2022
Teams That Previously Won the Motul Petit Le Mans and Are Competing in 2024 (17)
Corvette Racing (8): GTS – 2000, 2001, 2002, 2004; GT1 – 2005, 2007, 2008; GT2 – 2010
Risi Competizione (5): WSC – 1998; GT2 – 2008, 2009; GTLM – 2016, 2019
PR1 Mathiasen Motorsports (4): PC – 2011, 2015, 2016; LMP2 – 2019
Penske (3): P2 – 2006, 2007, 2008
Tower Motorsports (3): LMP2 – 2020, 2021, 2022
Wayne Taylor Racing (3): P – 2014, 2018; DPi – 2020
Action Express Racing (2): P – 2015; DPi – 2019
Riley (2): GTD – 2016, LMP3 – 2021
Af Corse (1): GT – 2011
Andretti Motorsports (1): LMP3 – 2022
BMW M Team RLL (1): GTLM – 2017
Forte Racing (1): GTD – 2023
Gradient Racing (1): GTD – 2022
Heart of Racing Team (1): GTD – 2021
Paul Miller Racing (1): GTD – 2014
Turner Motorsport (1): GTD – 2019
Vasser Sullivan (1): GTD PRO – 2022
Manufacturers That Previously Won the Motul Petit Le Mans and Are Competing in 2024 (11)
Porsche – 22
Ferrari – 11
Chevrolet – 10
Acura – 3
BMW – 3
Cadillac – 3
Aston Martin – 2
Ford – 1
Lamborghini – 1
Lexus – 1
Mercedes-AMG – 1
IMSA Wire Service PR
Anticipation Builds for the 2024 Motul Petit Le Mans: A Season Finale Showdown at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta
Overview of the Motul Petit Le Mans
The Motul Petit Le Mans is one of the most prestigious endurance races in North America, attracting fans and competitors from around the globe. As the season finale of the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, this race promises to deliver thrilling action, dramatic storylines, and the crowning of champions.
Event Details
The 2024 Motul Petit Le Mans will take place at the iconic Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta. Known for its challenging layout and picturesque setting, this track provides an exhilarating backdrop for the final showdown of the season. Here are key details about the event:
Date Location Race Duration Live Coverage October 2024 Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta, Georgia 10 Hours IMSA Live Stream Why the 2024 Race is Special
- Championship Deciders: The Petit Le Mans is crucial for determining the champions in various classes, including DPi, LMP2, GTD, and GTD Pro.
- Star-Studded Lineup: Expect to see top-tier teams and drivers, including past champions and rising stars, battling for glory.
- Emotional Farewells: With the 2024 season being the end of an era for some competitors, there will likely be poignant farewells, adding to the race’s emotional weight.
History and Significance
Since its inception in 1998, the Petit Le Mans has become a pillar of American motorsport. Its 10-hour duration tests the endurance of teams and drivers, making it a true test of skill, strategy, and teamwork. The race has seen unforgettable moments, from strategic pit stops to heart-stopping finishes, and it continues to be a highlight on the IMSA calendar.
Past Winners and Highlights
Over the years, the Petit Le Mans has showcased some of the best in endurance racing. Notable past winners include:
Year Winning Team Drivers 2023 Chip Ganassi Racing Kyle Larson, Scott Dixon, and others 2022 Whelen Engineering Racing Tristan Nunez, Pipo Derani 2021 Mazda Motorsports Jonathan Bomarito, Harry Tincknell What to Expect in 2024
Key Competitors
Fans can anticipate fierce competition from established teams and new entries. Notable competitors expected to participate include:
- Action Express Racing – Known for their consistent performance and strategic prowess.
- Penske Motorsport - A legendary name in racing with a strong focus on success.
- Cadillac Racing – Looking to dominate, especially in the DPi class.
Fan Experience
The 2024 Motul Petit Le Mans will not only be a race but also a festival for fans. Here’s what to look forward to:
- Fan Zones: Interactive areas with driver meet-and-greets, merchandise stands, and food stalls.
- Live Entertainment: Musical performances and entertainment throughout the weekend.
- Viewing Options: Multiple grandstands and viewing areas to ensure fans catch every moment of the action.
Practical Tips for Attending
For those planning to attend the race, here are some essential tips:
- Arrive Early: Given the excitement, arriving early ensures the best parking and viewing spots.
- Stay Hydrated: October weather can vary; bring water and stay hydrated throughout the day.
- Pack Accordingly: Bring sunscreen, hats, and comfortable seating for a long day of racing.
Viewing the Race from Home
If you can’t make it to Road Atlanta, don’t worry! The event will be streamed live, allowing fans to enjoy the action from the comfort of their homes. Tune into the official IMSA website for live coverage, updates, and highlights.
Conclusion
The 2024 Motul Petit Le Mans is shaping up to be an unforgettable showcase of endurance racing. With its rich history, competitive spirit, and vibrant fan experience, this event is a must-watch. Whether you’re attending in person or watching from home, the excitement is palpable!
This article provides an engaging overview of the 2024 Motul Petit Le Mans, ensuring that it’s SEO-optimized with relevant keywords and structured for enhanced readability and user experience.
