Daytona Tests – Day 1: Acura in the lead, first laps for the upgraded GTPs

A day marked by the appearance on track of the updated versions of the GTP, but also by the adoption of the new Michelin Pilot Sport tire Endurance, common to GTP and LMP2.

While lap times weren't the primary focus, Acura secured a symbolic one-two finish. Nick Yelloly set the fastest time of the morning with a 1:35.725 in the #93 Meyer Shank Racing Acura ARX-06, before his teammate Renger van der Zande took over in the afternoon with a 1:36.142. In LMP2, Tom Dillmann (Inter Europol #43) led the way before Charles Milesi (TDS Racing #11) claimed the top spot at the end of the day.

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This session was primarily an opportunity to discover the 2026 GTP models. Cadillac unveiled its revised V-Series.R, fielded by Wayne Taylor Racing and Action Express. The changes included the removal of the front dive planes, the elimination of some winglets, and a redesigned rear wing profile. Acura also activated one of its aerodynamic trump cards, while Porsche and BMW were running their own evolutions. Josef Newgarden praised a Porsche 963 best in all areas ", while Team WRT was completing its first laps in IMSA with the M Hybrid V8 featuring revised lines.

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Present to assess a possible participation in the 24 Hours of Daytona, Newgarden and Scott McLaughlin took the wheel of the Porsche 963s again. The New Zealander could make a fourth appearance at the Florida classic, having already raced in LMP2 and then in GTD Pro in recent years.

The test will continue this Saturday with the arrival on track of the GTD and GTD Pro for a full day of testing bringing together the four categories.

Discover the combined standings from the first day HERE