P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Albert Costa secured GTD victory for Conquest Racing at the IMSA SportsCar Championship’s 27th running of Petit Le Mans at Road Atlanta.
The #34 Conquest Racing Ferrari 296 clinched their debut victory in a grueling 10-hour race from the eighth position in the category, with less disruption compared to the prior year’s caution-filled event, resulting in prolonged green flag racing to maintain high tension. Winward Racing secured their maiden GTD championship title by finishing P14 or higher, with a strong motivation to claim their first Petit Le Mans win and end the season on a positive note. Forte Racing’s #45 Lamborghini Huracan and #34 Conquest Racing Ferrari charged through the GTD midfield, showcasing a competitive pace at the forefront of GTD competition in a thrilling battle to the finish line. GTD pole-sitter Scott Andrews (#80 Lone Star Racing Mercedes-AMG GT3) initially held the lead but faced challenges that led to a caution period, dropping him to last place. The race saw intense battles as competitors like the #32 Team Korthoff/Preston Mercedes-AMG and #57 Mercedes-AMG displayed impressive pace, with strategic overtakes and attempts to secure a victory. Various incidents, including a caution triggered by contact between the #66 Gradient Racing Acura NSX and the #9 Pfaff Motorsports McLaren 720S, added drama to the race, amplifying the competitiveness among the teams. Despite setbacks, the competition remained fierce and highlighted the determination and skill of the drivers and teams participating in the race.
