Acura already there at Daytona

The Japanese manufacturer stood out during the first two practice sessions for the 24 Hours of Daytona and the domination of Meyer Shank Racing.

Published on 21/01/2023 à 11:44

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Meyer Shank Racing dominated the first two practice sessions at Daytona © Michael L. Levitt

The reigning winners give the measure. For the first day of the Roar 24 Hours of Daytona, it was Acura and Meyer Shank Racing who topped the timesheets. First in FP1, first in FP2, the No. 06 Acura ARX-60 dominated the proceedings for this first official run in Florida. The Japanese manufacturer even scored a double blow since the LMDh of Wayne Taylor Racing – Andretti signed the 2nd best time overall for the two sessions.

An ideal warm-up, especially since Acura did not experience any major problems during the night from Friday to Saturday. With 117 laps on the clock, the new Japanese LMDh has accumulated experience to the point of being the favorite for the Florida event. Victorious at Daytona last year, the Meyer Shank Racing crew hopes to continue their momentum for the rest of the weekend. In any case, this is what we want Helio Castroneves, author of the best time during EL2. “It feels good, I’ll take it!” ", said the four-time Indy500 winner. “Any good day at the office is still a good day. It's great that everyone is in sync. Everyone has done a good job and let's continue this momentum. »

Castroneves praises Acura's behind-the-scenes work

The Brazilian driver gave his first sensations aboard the Acura ARX-06 on the Daytona road circuit. Although he participated in the development of the Japanese LMDh, he admitted that until Friday, he had not yet felt comfortable in this new machine. “To be honest, it was the first time I felt good in the car,” said Castroneves. Acura has done a lot of work behind the scenes that people don't understand. When I was here for the tryouts last time, there was no way I was going to be happy. There were question marks, lots of question marks. But at the end of the day, everyone did a great job and now we have to continue. »

Optimism is therefore displayed on the side of Acura and Meyer Shank Racing. The objective is clear: obtain pole position on Sunday, during qualifying for the 24 Hours of Daytona (from 19:25 p.m. French time).

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