Paul Miller Racing Clinches IMSA GTD Pro Championship at Petit Le Mans
Written with artificial intelligence.
Paul Miller Racing secured the IMSA GTD Pro title with a strategic third-place finish at the Petit Le Mans, overcoming early setbacks and fierce competition. The team, led by drivers Connor de Phillippi and Neil Verhagen, showcased resilience throughout the season, culminating in their second GTD championship in three years.
Championship Overview
Paul Miller Racing triumphed at the Petit Le Mans, solidifying their status as IMSA GTD Pro champions. Despite facing early-race contact, a drive-through penalty, and challenging weather conditions, the team finished third at Road Atlanta. This result, alongside their season opener victory at the Rolex 24 At Daytona, earned them their second GTD title in three years and their third consecutive GTD Pro Endurance Cup.
Key Drivers and Performance
The team, consisting of drivers Connor de Phillippi, Neil Verhagen, and endurance co-driver Dan Harper, demonstrated remarkable teamwork throughout the 10-hour race. De Phillippi celebrated his first championship after seven seasons in IMSA, emphasizing the importance of consistency and minimizing mistakes throughout the season. Verhagen played a crucial role in qualifying, securing seven top-three starts, which helped build their championship lead.
Race Highlights
The race was marked by intense moments, including a critical decision by Verhagen to remain on slick tires during a rain shower. This gamble proved successful as the track conditions improved. Their championship rivals faced late-race incidents, further clearing the path to victory for Paul Miller Racing. De Phillippi noted the importance of luck and strategy in their final race, highlighting how they managed to maintain composure amidst the chaos.
Looking Ahead
As the team celebrates their championship win, uncertainty looms about their future heading into 2027. Verhagen reflected on the emotional significance of their achievements, emphasizing the dedication and hard work of the crew. The season's perseverance, demonstrated through challenges and recoveries, has solidified their bond and commitment to excellence in upcoming races.