After the announcement of Jr III Racing becoming the home of United Autosport’s US IMSA LMP2 entry, I had the opportunity to go to a European Le Mans race weekend at Spa-Francorchamps to see how United operated at the track. I also was able to check off another race track off my list, and it was just as amazing as I thought it would be.
I was able to spend the whole weekend with United and was incredibly well received. Everyone at United was very accommodating and gracious with me as I sat in on meetings and observed how the team operated. It was great to get to meet face to face with many of their team members. I know how busy race weekends are for everyone so I was honored how much time everyone at United spent with me. It was a very productive trip to learn about their team and culture.
I’m very thankful the trip went very smoothly and nothing was too surprising. It was very fun to learn about the different rules around how European Le Mans races operate such as their full course caution protocol and pit stop rules. The series does not have a pit wall to jump off to start the pit stop and the team operates right out of the garage so some of the logistics of operating a team are much different than over here.
Not only was I welcomed with open arms from United, but I was also able to experience Spa, a remarkable race track! The elevation change and layout is one of a kind. Unfortunately, I was unable to walk the circuit itself but I did walk around the entire perimeter during FP2 and it was amazing to see it in person with cars on track. The elevation and speed of Eau Rouge is truly breathtaking, TV just does not do it justice. The size of the facility and scenery around Spa is just amazing and it was a wonderful experience.
It was an excellent trip both professionally and personally. It was my first time attending a race in Europe so that was very exciting for me. It felt great to be so well received by United and to kick off our 2024 season as early as possible. There is still a lot of work to do to get ready for Daytona 2024 but the trip was very positive and helped move us in that direction.
On to Road Atlanta!