In a move that caught many by surprise, JDC-Miller MotorSports has announced that former Porsche factory driver Gianmaria “Gimmi” Bruni will compete full-time in the 2025 IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship. Bruni, an endurance racing veteran, will pilot the team’s No. 85 Porsche 963 alongside third-year JDC-Miller driver Tijmen van der Helm.
A High-Profile Addition to JDC-Miller
Bruni, who boasts an impressive résumé with stints as a Porsche and Ferrari works driver, expressed excitement about his new role. “I am very happy to be joining JDC-Miller MotorSports for the 2025 IMSA WeatherTech Championship season,” Bruni said. “I spent a few days with the team at the Daytona tests in November, and I can’t wait to work with them throughout the entire IMSA championship. I am very motivated and expect to see great results.”
The Italian’s pedigree includes winning the LMP2 class at the 2023 Rolex 24 at Daytona with Proton Competition. His transition to JDC-Miller marks a significant step for the team, which is eager to build on recent successes.
Star-Studded Lineup for Daytona
Joining Bruni and van der Helm at the iconic Rolex 24 at Daytona will be reigning FIA Formula E World Champion and Porsche works driver Pascal Wehrlein, along with rising star Bryce Aron, an Indy NXT driver making his IMSA debut. The combination of seasoned endurance racing veterans and promising newcomers positions the No. 85 Porsche 963 as a strong contender in the GTP class.
Replacing a Legend
Bruni’s arrival fills the seat left by Richard Westbrook, who recently retired. Westbrook was instrumental in securing the team’s first GTP podium at Indianapolis in 2024. The result came after a post-race penalty to the No. 6 Porsche Penske Motorsport 963 elevated JDC-Miller from fourth to third, showcasing the team’s potential in the highly competitive GTP field.
JDC-Miller Managing Partner John Church praised Bruni’s addition, stating, “We are incredibly excited to welcome Gimmi to the JDC-Miller family. His impressive track record and deep understanding of sports car racing speak for themselves. He and Tijmen are the pair of world-class drivers we need to compete for the championship.”
A Proven Champion Ready to Lead
Bruni’s extensive experience in endurance racing and his familiarity with Porsche machinery make him a valuable asset for JDC-Miller. Having already tested the No. 85 Porsche 963 during November’s IMSA Sanctioned Test at Daytona, Bruni has a head start in preparing for the 2025 season. His proven ability to deliver results, coupled with his leadership, will undoubtedly elevate the team’s championship aspirations.
Looking Ahead to 2025
The addition of Bruni and a strong supporting cast at Daytona signals JDC-Miller’s intent to compete at the highest level in the GTP class. With a mix of veteran expertise and emerging talent, the team looks poised to build on its momentum and challenge for more podiums—and potentially victories—throughout the 2025 IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship season.
