Nick Yelloly, IMSA driver, reflects on the significance of David Salters’ departure from Honda Racing Corporation USA (HRC USA). Salters’ decision to leave BMW at the end of the 2024 season has led him to speak directly with Yelloly, establishing a trusting relationship that has been ongoing since his joining Acura.
The leadership transition became effective on September 12, when Salters officially left the presidency to start a new project at a tech startup. Kelvin Fu, until then vice president, has been promoted to lead the organization in the last two events of the season.
Yelloly emphasizes that communication between him and Salters has been key. ‘David is a fellow Brit with whom I have had a great connection. When I decided to switch to Acura, I spoke with him directly, and everything he promised he delivered,’ he comments.
Salters has left a significant mark on HRC USA during his decade-long career. He joined Honda in 2015 as chief engineer and progressed to president in 2020. During this time, the team achieved three IndyCar manufacturer titles and led the introduction of the hybrid Acura ARX-06 model.
Fu, the current president, has a notable track record within the company, having managed design and performance before rising in responsibilities. His experience promises continuity at a crucial time in competition.
As for the present, Yelloly and his teammate, Renger van der Zande, occupy third place in the overall GTP standings with the #93 Acura. Although Acura is suspending its IMSA program at the end of the 2026 season, Yelloly has already secured a spot in Ford Racing’s Hypercar program for the following year.
According to Yelloly, beyond the statistical successes, Salters’ true legacy lies in his ability to identify young talent and build a cohesive team. ‘Our engineering was new and inexperienced, and through David’s support we were able to grow and become respectable competitors,’ he concludes.
Written by FormulaRapidaAI
