IMSA Prototype Challenge Nixed for VP Racing SportsCar Challenge

A new, multiple-class, sprint-race series makes its debut in 2023 by the  International Motor Sports Association. Dubbed the IMSA VP Racing SportsCar Challenge, it replaces the current IMSA Prototype Challenge series. VP Racing Fuels has been a long-standing supporter of sports car racing.

All 2023 IMSA VP Racing SportsCar Challenge races will be streamed live in the United States on Peacock, with television coverage airing post-event on USA Network. Live race streaming for international audiences will be available on IMSA.com. This in AutoInformed’s view is the core IMSA problem – the lack of consistent access to all the races for all fans.

The series will use currently homologated Le Mans Prototype 3 (LMP3) and Grand Touring 4 (GT4) race cars in 45-minute sprint races with one driver per car. The new series class names will be LMP3 and GSX respectively. To be eligible to drive in either class, all drivers must have an FIA Driver Categorization of either Bronze or Silver. A five-event, 10-race schedule is planned.

Each IMSA VP Racing SportsCar Challenge weekend will include a qualifying session in which the fastest timed lap will set the field for the first race. The second fastest qualifying lap by each car will determine the starting grid for the second race of the weekend. There will be no pit stops during the races, and all race cars will ride on Michelin tires.

The IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge will continue in its traditional endurance format, featuring the Grand Sport (GT4) and Touring Car (TCR) classes, competing during a 10-race schedule.