Manufacturers Honor IMSA Drivers and Teams in Annual Awards
In recent days, three German manufacturers have recognized the outstanding achievements of IMSA GTD teams and drivers in the annual awards. Among those honored are Russell Ward and Winward Racing, who had a stellar season in 2024.
Winward Racing Dominates
Winward Racing, led by Russell Ward, clinched the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship GTD driver and team titles, as well as the Michelin Endurance Cup. Their No. 57 Mercedes-AMG GT3 had a remarkable season, with Ward, full-season co-driver Philip Ellis, and endurance addition Indy Dontje securing victories in three endurance races and adding a sprint win to their accolades. The team’s success culminated in championships in both overall standings and the Michelin Endurance Cup.
Mercedes-AMG Recognizes Excellence
Russell Ward’s exceptional performance did not go unnoticed as he was honored by Mercedes-AMG at the Customer Racing Championship ceremony in Stuttgart, Germany. Ward received the Overall Pro Driver and Pro Driver GT3 awards, solidifying his status as one of the best in the field. His recognition highlights the hard work of the Winward crew and the exceptional performance of the Mercedes AMG GT3 platform.
Turner Motorsport Shines Again
Turner Motorsport secured the BMW M Sports Trophy for teams for the second consecutive year. Robby Foley and Patrick Gallagher of Turner Motorsport finished second in the GTD driver standings, showcasing their consistency and skill throughout the season. The team’s dedication and results across various championships earned them this prestigious award.
Wright Motorsports Excels
At Porsche’s Night of Champions, Wright Motorsports GTD drivers Adam Adelson and Elliott Skeer claimed third place in the coveted Porsche Cup. Their exceptional rookie season in IMSA competition, coupled with a victory in the Fanatec GT World Challenge America Pro championship, solidified their position among the top performers in the field.
As the 2025 season kicks off, these talented teams and drivers will once again hit the track for the Rolex 24 At Daytona next month. Their dedication and skill have earned them well-deserved recognition from top manufacturers in the industry, setting the stage for another thrilling season of IMSA racing.
