Click it and Unblock the Notifications
Hyundai Inches Closer To Championship Lead Ahead Of Watkins Glen Showdown
Hyundai Motor America (HMA) and Bryan Herta Autosport (BHA) are set to continue their impressive performance in the 2024 IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge (IMPC) season. With a 40-point gap to close, Hyundai aims to take the lead in the Manufacturers’ Championship at The Esses 120 at Watkins Glen International.
The live race coverage will begin on Peacock at 12:50 PM EDT on Saturday, June 22. Hyundai has consistently secured podium finishes in every race of the 2024 IMPC season, and they are looking to maintain this streak at the iconic New York racetrack.
Denis Dupont and Preston Brown, driving the No. 76 Hyundai Elantra N TCR, currently hold second place in the championship standings. Close behind are Harry Gottsacker and Robert Wickens in third place with the No. 33 car, followed by Mason Filippi and Mark Wilkins in fourth with the No. 98.
| Position | Drivers | Team | Car | Total Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | P. Brown / D. Dupont | Bryan Herta Autosport | #76 Elantra N TCR | 1180 |
| 3 | H. Gottsacker / R. Wickens | Bryan Herta Autosport | #33 Elantra N TCR | 1070 |
| 4 | M. Filippi / M. Wilkins | Bryan Herta Autosport | #98 Elantra N TCR | 1060 |
| 7 | T. Hagler / B. Morris | Bryan Herta Autosport | #77 Elantra N TCR | 900 |
| 8 | T. Gonzalez / V. Gonzalez | Victor Gonzalez Racing Team | #99 Elantra N TCR | 860 |
| 10 | C. Jones / M. Burkhard | Victor Gonzalez Racing Team | #80 Elantra N TCR | 790 |
The No. 76 Hyundai Elantra N TCR driven by Preston Brown and Denis Dupont has shown strong performance historically at Watkins Glen International, securing podiums and wins in previous visits. In the last running of the Esses 120, van der Steur Racing secured a podium finish, with Robert Wickens and Harry Gottsacker finishing fifth.
Hyundai Hope On Wheels Initiative
This year, Hyundai Hope On Wheels has pledged to donate $100 for every lap led by a Hyundai Elantra N TCR during each race of the 2024 IMSA IMPC season. So far, they have raised $10,000 to support the fight against childhood cancer through the first four events of this year’s campaign.
Pikes Peak International Hill Climb Participation
Apart from their IMPC efforts, Hyundai is also preparing for the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb (PPIHC). They will field a pair of heavily modified IONIQ 5 N race cars along with a production-based entrant to compete in various electric SUV/Crossover categories.
The PPIHC course spans 12.42 miles (20 km) and climbs over 4,700 feet (1,438 meters) across 156 turns, posing significant challenges due to its high-altitude conditions and variable weather.
Manufacturer Standings Overview
| Position | Manufacturer | Total Points | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Audi | 1350 | |||
| 2 | Hyundai | 1310 | |||
| 3 | Alfa Romeo | 1180 | |||
| 4 | Honda | 1160 |
The competition remains fierce as Hyundai trails Audi by just 40 points in the Manufacturer Standings.
The upcoming races will be crucial for Hyundai as they aim to close this gap and potentially take the lead in both driver and manufacturer standings.
The next event at Watkins Glen International will be pivotal for Hyundai's championship aspirations as they continue their pursuit of excellence in motorsports.
Continue with Google