Harry Gottsacker and Robert Wickens are IMSA Champions
Bryan Herta Autosport won its fifth consecutive IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge TCR team and drivers titles Friday. Harry Gottsacker and Robert Wickens entered the season finale at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta with a 20-point lead over the #17 Audi of Chris Miller and Mikey Taylor. Driving the #33 Elantra N TCR, Gottsacker and Wickens prevailed, earning their first IMSA drivers’ titles. For Wickens, the title comes in just his second season driving with hand controls. Mason Filippi and Mark Wilkins earned their third victory of the season and secured second in the series championship. Hyundai scored three victories in 2023, all by Wilkins and Filippi, en-route to their fourth consecutive manufacturer’s title. The team also earned the Michelin “All Hands-on Deck” award which was accepted by Team Manager Phil Howard at the series awards banquet Friday evening and the BDO Strategy Award, which was accepted by Technical Director, Kyle Compton.
Hyundai’s led every lap in the Fox Factory 120, raising $6500 for the Atlanta Childrens Hospital,. Hyundai Hope on Wheels donated $100 per lap led by a Hyundai.
Harry Gottsacker: “I’ve enjoyed a lot of success with BHA and Hyundai, but this is certainly the highlight of my career thus far. It’s been a great experience working with Robbie this season. We’ve spent a lot of time working together to win this title and I am very pleased we’ve accomplished this as co-drivers. To finish first and second in the Championship and the big win for Hyundai is a great achievement.”
Robert Wickens: “This is very rewarding and the culmination of a lot of hard work, obviously through my recovery, but also by the Bryan Herta Autosport team. Harry and the crew were all very consistent and we won this through consistency. Big thanks to Hyundai and everyone out there for all of the support.”
Bryan Herta: “Today was probably our sweetest day since we partnered with Hyundai. Certainly, the challenge for the championships was harder than it’s ever been, and we couldn’t be prouder of Harry and Robbie and the 33 team, but also every member of our team who contributed to this success. We know there will be hard work ahead to get ready for next year, but right now we want to savor and celebrate.”