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Meet the Speed Demon: IMSA Unveils Its New Record-Shattering Driver!

Harry Bright by Harry Bright
March 28, 2025
in Motorsports
Reading Time: 3 mins read
0
Meet the Speed Demon: IMSA Unveils Its New Record-Shattering Driver!

Jan 25, 2025; Daytona Beach, FL, USA; BMW M Team RLL BMW M Hybrid V8 of Phillipp Eng, Dries Vanthoor, Raffaele Marciello, and Kevin Magnussen (24) races during the Rolex 24 at Daytona International Speedway. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-Imagn Images

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Dries Vanthoor: The Rising Star Dominating IMSA with Unmatched Skill and Candor

In the high-stakes world of IMSA racing, achieving back-to-back pole positions is a remarkable feat. Doing so at the formidable Sebring International Raceway, especially on your first visit, is nothing short of extraordinary. Dries Vanthoor, a name quickly becoming synonymous with speed and charisma in the racing circuit, has accomplished just that.

Vanthoor, who completed his first full season in a top-tier prototype last year, is emerging as a formidable force in IMSA. Known for his rapid pace and unfiltered honesty, Vanthoor shares the track with his brother, who he both competes with and admires, and is part of the BMW team alongside veteran ex-Formula 1 driver Kevin Magnussen. This dynamic has added a layer of excitement and attention to the BMW program.

Despite Vanthoor’s limited experience—having only three IMSA starts prior to this season—he has made a significant impact. His impressive poles at Daytona set the stage for a thrilling full-time season with Phillip Eng, with Magnussen joining for the longer races. Vanthoor’s recent pole at Sebring has further cemented his reputation as a rising star.

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“We knew we had done significant work on the car,” Vanthoor shares. “We hoped this year the car would be more competitive, allowing us to fight for victories. To secure pole at Sebring, a track I was unfamiliar with, was a testament to the car’s performance and my adaptability.”

However, the races themselves have been less forgiving. A dislodged diffuser at Daytona cost Vanthoor a potential win, culminating in a fourth-place finish. At Sebring, a collision in the pit lane with the No.60 Acura dashed BMW’s hopes for a victory.

Despite these setbacks, the BMW team is optimistic about their 2025 prospects. The car, which saw its first win and a 1-2 finish at Indianapolis last year, has undergone significant improvements. A key change has been the switch in brake manufacturers, which Vanthoor believes has revolutionized their performance. “The brake change opened up many new possibilities for us,” he explains. “Last year, brake issues impacted tire pressure and overall drivability. This year, we’ve overcome those limitations.”

In IMSA, where tire warm-up is crucial due to the absence of tire warmers, the improvements have been pivotal. Vanthoor’s performance has positioned him as a key player in BMW’s success, with his candid personality endearing him to fans and critics alike.

Known for his frank self-assessments, Vanthoor doesn’t shy away from critiquing his own performances. After a dominant stint at Daytona, a pit stop mistake left him frustrated. “It’s a terrible stint when you end like that,” he admitted. At Sebring, he candidly acknowledged driving “like a billy,” a slang term indicating a subpar performance.

Vanthoor’s openness is refreshing in a sport where many drivers hesitate to accept blame. “I’m honest with myself,” he states. “If I make a mistake, I own it and use it as motivation to improve.”

While BMW’s speed is undeniable, Vanthoor acknowledges the team’s need for better race execution. “Our biggest issue is executing races as planned. Mistakes have cost us,” he admits. “But we’re committed to improving. We know what needs to be fixed.”

In contrast, Porsche’s flawless execution has secured them victories with the No.7 car. Vanthoor’s brother, Laurens, has thrived with Porsche, adding a personal rivalry to the professional mix. “It’s a proud moment for us as brothers from Belgium, but it also fuels my competitive spirit,” Vanthoor says.

As Vanthoor continues to adapt and excel, his journey in IMSA promises more thrilling races and personal triumphs. His rapid learning curve and unyielding determination signal a bright future in the world of motorsport.

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