Porsche returns to Laguna Seca to defend IMSA lead with hybrid 963 and GT3 R

Porsche aims to extend its IMSA championship lead at Laguna Seca with the 963 and 911 GT3 R. All teams and drivers set for round four on May 11.

Porsche Penske Motorsport heads to California aiming to extend its dominant streak in the 2025 IMSA season. Round four of the WeatherTech SportsCar Championship takes place on May 11 at the iconic Laguna Seca Raceway — a circuit known for its elevation changes and the legendary “Corkscrew” corner, which continues to test even the most seasoned drivers.

Following victories at the 24 Hours of Daytona, 12 Hours of Sebring, and the Long Beach street sprint, Porsche leads all championship standings. Confidence within the team is high, buoyed not only by recent results but by history: in 2024, car No. 6 claimed victory in Monterey. Now, Matt Campbell and Mathieu Jaminet are looking to repeat that success.

The sister car No. 7, piloted by Felipe Nasr and Nick Tandy, has dominated the first three races and continues to build its lead. As Thomas Laudenbach, Vice President of Porsche Motorsport, points out, team motivation is at an all-time high. He sees the variety of victories as proof of robust preparation, not chance.

Adding further depth to the GTP class, the customer team JDC-Miller MotorSports will field its own Porsche 963, No. 85, driven by Gianmaria Bruni and Tijmen van der Helm.

In the GTD-Pro category, the fan-favorite “Rexy” takes a break, replaced by the pink-liveried Porsche 911 GT3 R known as “Roxy,” fielded by AO Racing. Behind the wheel are former Porsche Juniors Klaus Bachler and reigning IMSA champion Laurin Heinrich.

Meanwhile, in the GTD class, Wright Motorsports returns with Adam Adelson and Elliott Skeer. The duo reached the podium last year at Laguna Seca and are targeting a repeat performance.

The track, built in 1957, is notorious for its technical layout and was recently resurfaced, providing improved grip. However, the coastal wind continues to sweep sand onto the circuit, increasing tire wear and challenging teams' setup strategies.

Drivers’ remarks ahead of the race reflect a balance of ambition and realism. Jaminet recalls last year’s triumph, while Nasr highlights the electric atmosphere created by fans. Confidence in the car and team is high, though everyone knows that Laguna Seca punishes the smallest errors.

The California rollercoaster may once again reward precision and strategic execution. If Porsche can replicate last year’s success, it will reinforce their dominance — and move them one step closer to the championship title.

Source: porsche.com