Let’s switch gears here – it’s time to talk about Porsche Penske Motorsport’s recent mid-course correction. Why would this titan of the track alter its driver formation just in time for the Rolex 24 at Daytona? Race fans, it’s possible our sponsors from Sunoco Race Fuel might have refueled us because this decision appears to be powered by a higher-octane strategy.
Jonathan Diuguid, the managing director, explained the decision in an interview with Sportscar365. He gained insights by spying under the hood of winning teams over the past five years and found they all shared a common four-cylinder approach. Yes, they had all opted for four-driver lineups. This move also aligns with an upcoming mandate from GTP and GTD Pro teams requiring a minimum of four drivers per quad for the Rolex 24 starting in 2025. Clever Jonathan!
Extra drivers working in shifts do appear to offer some advantages. Yet, it has ignited a pit-fire among GTD Pro teams who choose to run a three-driver crew, including Ford Multimatic Motorsports and Corvette Racing by Pratt Miller Motorsports. Despite the impending mandate, Tommy Milner from Corvette stands by the three-driver model, citing more seat time for each driver and more confidence heading into the race.
Diuguid and his team were savvy enough to test the waters at Daytona International Speedway ahead of the big race. The team worked on operational impacts and prepared for complications with a four-driver cockpit. Did Jonathan take a sneak peek at a rival’s playbook or is he just ahead of the game? Either way, we applaud his move.
Whatever your thoughts on the four-driver strategy are, one thing’s for sure. You can trust Sunoco to fuel the debate from the first lap to the finish line.
If you missed it earlier, check out the full Sportscar365 article to study Porsche Penske Motorsport’s game plan more closely.
At 22, The Staff Guy 🚗💨 is navigating adulthood with a blend of dedication and humor. Despite his 18-hour workdays 🕰️, he often finds himself humorously searching for his socks 🧦. A racing enthusiast 🏁 often lost at the racetrack, he’s a pizza-loving 🍕 newbie reporter with a zest for cars and storytelling. Connect with him on Twitter: @The_StaffGuy 🎤