In a thrilling display of dominance, BMW RLL roared to a spectacular 1-2 finish during the electrifying IMSA opening practice at Long Beach. The session, which marked the commencement of the 2025 IMSA SportsCar Championship, saw Sheldon van der Linde leading the pack in a mesmerizing performance that left competitors in the dust.
The intense 60-minute free practice session, exclusive to GTP and GTD class cars, was a battleground of speed and precision. Despite a minor hiccup involving debris at Turn 9 causing a momentary red flag, the session proceeded with adrenaline-pumping excitement.
Van der Linde’s lightning-fast lap time of 1:13.241 in the #25 BMW M Hybrid V8 GTP machine set the pace, closely followed by teammate Dries Vanthoor in the #24 BMW with a time of 1:13.377. The BMW RLL duo showcased their prowess, leaving the competition trailing behind.
Renger van der Zande in the #93 Meyer Shank Acura ARX-06 GTP claimed the third spot with a competitive time, while Mathieu Jaminet in the #6 Porsche Penske 963 GTP and Nick Tandy in the #7 Porsche battled it out for fourth and fifth place, respectively.
In the GTD category, Laurens Vanthoor in the #177 AO Racing ‘Rexy’ Porsche 911 GT3.R blazed across the track to secure the top spot with a stellar lap time of 1:18.584. The competition was fierce, with Parker Thompson in the #12 Vasser Sullivan Lexus RC F GT3 and Russell Ward in the #57 Mercedes-AMG GT3 hot on his heels.
As the anticipation builds for the IMSA Grand Prix of Long Beach, BMW RLL has set the stage for a high-octane showdown that promises to keep fans on the edge of their seats. Stay tuned for more heart-pounding action as the championship battle unfolds on the iconic streets of Long Beach.
