Hyundai Continues Double-Podium Streak At Home Race At WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca

Hyundai Motor America showcased its impressive speed and performance at the WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, securing its third double-podium finish of the 2024 IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge (IMPC) season. The team's Hyundai Elantra N TCR cars led the way, raising $2,300 for Hyundai Hope On Wheels.From the start of the race, Harry Gottsacker in the No. 33 Hyundai Elantra N TCR and Mark Wilkins in the No. 98 car were in pursuit of the lead. Starting from third and fourth place on the grid, they quickly made their way to the front. After a caution period, Gottsacker moved into second place, with the rest of the Hyundai stable following closely behind.The No. 98 Elantra N TCR driven by Mason Filippi showcased clever strategy, allowing him to take the lead for 23 laps. Filippi battled for first place in the closing stages of the race and ultimately finished in second position. Robert Wickens in the No. 33 car closely followed, securing third place.Hyundai demonstrated its strength throughout the race, with half of the top ten finishing positions occupied by Hyundai cars. Victor Gonzalez and Tyler Gonzalez Jr. finished in seventh place in the No. 99 car, while Preston Brown and Denis Dupont took eighth place in the No. 76 car. Tayler Hagler and Bryson Morris claimed ninth place in the No. 77 car.Unfortunately, Chase Jones and Morgan Burkhard in the No. 80 Victor Gonzalez Racing Team Hyundai Elantra N TCR encountered a mechanical issue that ended their race prematurely.Hyundai was joined by Hyundai Hope on Wheels Youth Ambassador Oliver Foster, who took on an honorary co-driver role for the No. 33 Hyundai Elantra N TCR.Following this impressive performance, Hyundai currently sits second in the 2024 IMPC Manufacturers' Championship standings. The team will now prepare for The Esses 120 at Watkins Glen on June 22, 2024.The top-finishing Hyundai in the race was the No. 98 Bryan Herta Autosport Hyundai Elantra N TCR driven by Mark Wilkins and Mason Filippi. The No. 33 Bryan Herta Autosport Hyundai Elantra N TCR driven by Harry Gottsacker and Robert Wickens secured third place in qualifying.The podium celebrations at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca were captured in a photograph featuring the drivers of the No. 33 and No. 98 Hyundai Elantra N TCR cars alongside Oliver Foster.Hyundai's strong performance is reflected in the championship standings, with drivers Mark Wilkins and Mason Filippi currently in second place. Preston Brown and Denis Dupont are in third place, while Robert Wickens and Harry Gottsacker are in fourth place.In the manufacturer standings, Hyundai holds second place behind Audi, with Honda and Alfa Romeo following closely behind.Hyundai's commitment to philanthropy was evident at Laguna Seca, with Hyundai Hope On Wheels pledging to donate $100 for every lap a Hyundai Elantra N TCR leads during the season. At this race, Hyundai cars led 23 laps, resulting in a $2,300 donation to the campaign.Hyundai Motor America is known for its technology-rich lineup of cars, SUVs, and electrified vehicles. The company's operations in the U.S., including its North American headquarters in California and manufacturing facilities in Alabama and Georgia, contribute significantly to the U.S. economy.For more information about Hyundai Motor America, visit www.hyundainews.com. Stay updated with Hyundai Motor America on Twitter, YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and TikTok.This impressive performance by Hyundai at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca demonstrates the team's dedication to excellence and its pursuit of victory in the 2024 IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge. With their strong showing, Hyundai is poised to continue making waves in the world of motorsports.