Inside Honda's bold IMSA strategy shift for 2025

Inside Honda's bold IMSA strategy shift for 2025

By Michael Harrison

February 7, 2025 at 12:30 AM

Honda's direct involvement in IMSA racing marks a significant shift in its motorsport strategy. The company now manages engineering and strategy for the No.93 Acura ARX-06 through Honda Racing Corporation US (HRC) employees, rather than relying solely on team partners.

This new approach offers several key advantages:

Direct Data Flow and Development

  • HRC engineers now receive firsthand track data
  • Immediate feedback loop for car development
  • Enhanced simulator correlation through direct track experience
  • More efficient implementation of upgrades and improvements

Strategic Team Structure

  • Collaboration between HRC and Meyer Shank Racing (MSR)
  • No.93 car managed by HRC staff
  • No.60 car operated by MSR
  • Ability to compare different engineering approaches

Race car at Rolex IMSA event

Race car at Rolex IMSA event

Key Personnel and Drivers

  • Stefano Pulcini: Engineer
  • George Angelidis: Strategist
  • Nick Yelloly and Renger van der Zande: Primary drivers
  • Both drivers chosen specifically for development expertise

Business Benefits

  • Enhanced B2B opportunities
  • Direct sponsorship management
  • Employee development through hands-on experience
  • Improved technological understanding

This strategic shift represents Honda's long-term commitment to IMSA racing, focusing on both technological advancement and team development. Despite previous challenges, including MSR's 2023 tire data incident, the partnership continues with a renewed focus on future success.

With three consecutive strong showings at the Rolex 24, this new approach aims to maintain early-season performance while improving championship consistency throughout the year.

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