amborghini’s recent withdrawal from the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) has placed the Italian automaker in a race against time to determine the future operators for its GTD PRO and GTP programs in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship. This shift follows the brand’s decision to pivot away from the WEC’s Hypercar class after regulatory changes mandated manufacturers to field two factory cars starting in 2025, doubling Lamborghini’s commitment and conflicting with its strategic goals.
In a statement, Lamborghini highlighted the rationale behind its decision:
“The regulation changes the terms on which Lamborghini entered the championship this year and is no longer aligned with the company’s strategy. Lamborghini has therefore evaluated its options and elected to sit out the 2025 FIA WEC while remaining committed to SC63 development by continuing in the IMSA SportsCar Championship in the United States.”
A Shifting Landscape with Iron Lynx and PREMA Racing
Lamborghini’s pivot to focus on IMSA comes amidst a major shake-up in its partnerships. Its long-standing partner Iron Lynx, which has represented Lamborghini in the Huracan GT3 program and ran its SC63 hybrid under the Iron Lynx/PREMA Racing banner, has aligned with Mercedes-AMG to field cars in the WEC’s LMGT3 class.
This alignment signals an end to the Lamborghini-Iron Lynx partnership in both the WEC and IMSA’s GTD PRO class. As a result, Lamborghini is left to explore alternative options for its SC63 GTP hybrid program and GTD PRO efforts.
Potential Paths Forward in IMSA
For Lamborghini’s flagship SC63 hybrid in IMSA’s top-tier GTP class, the automaker’s recent participation in the Nov. 15-17 IMSA test at Daytona under Iron Lynx/PREMA underscores the importance of continuity in its operations. However, with Iron Lynx stepping away, Lamborghini may consider:
- A continuation with PREMA Racing: If PREMA severs ties with Iron Lynx, Lamborghini could retain the expertise that helped launch the SC63 hybrid program, offering operational stability.
- New partnerships: Lamborghini may seek fresh collaborators with a proven track record in running competitive GTP programs.
In GTD PRO, Lamborghini must secure a partner capable of managing its Huracan GT3 EVO effort for the full season. This includes competing in IMSA’s Michelin Endurance Cup, a five-race schedule focused on marquee events like the Rolex 24 at Daytona and the 12 Hours of Sebring.
The Path Ahead
The operational overhaul presents challenges but also opportunities for Lamborghini to streamline its focus on the U.S. market, a critical arena for its motorsport and brand strategies. By continuing to develop and showcase the SC63 hybrid in IMSA, Lamborghini can strengthen its footing in one of the most competitive endurance racing series globally.
With the clock ticking toward the 2025 season, Lamborghini’s decisions in the coming weeks will determine whether it can maintain momentum and capitalize on the potential of its ambitious racing programs.
