The Manthey team has experienced a first season in IMSA marked by learning and new challenges, even though they achieved two victories in their first year in the highest competition of North American endurance racing.
The German team secured victory in their second race at the prestigious Twelve Hours of Sebring in the GTD Pro category, as well as another win in their five-race campaign in the Endurance Cup.
Unexpected challenge
Despite this initial success, the competition has been more demanding than Manthey had anticipated. Nicki Raeder, the team’s general manager, commented that ‘it has definitely been a challenge, and we have learned a lot, perhaps more than we expected initially.’
He added that ‘in many respects we could say that we did not underestimate them, but the competition has been more demanding than we believed.’ The team, which has strong support from Porsche, is known for rapidly succeeding in the competitions it enters, but IMSA has presented operational difficulties that they had not encountered before.
Intensity of the races
Raeder emphasized the intensity of IMSA races, explaining that ‘what impressed me the most was how intense the races are throughout their duration.’ He recalled that, in long races like the Petit Le Mans, the pressure remains constant and rules like the wave-by procedures generated debate about when overtaking was allowed.
‘You have to be 110% focused all the time; there is no break, even when everything points to the last hour,’ he warned. Risks are present, as demonstrated by a lack of fuel that made them finish seventh in a race they could have won.
Strategic adaptation
In terms of competition, Manthey chose to use its usual European team instead of incorporating specialized IMSA personnel, a decision Raeder firmly defends. ‘We want the knowledge to stay within the team, and that we can build on this foundation.’
Reception from the American public
Manthey has sought to increase its visibility in the United States, and it seems to have achieved good recognition. Raeder commented that surprisingly fans were already aware of the team and that the support has been very positive.
Future of Manthey in IMSA
Looking ahead, Manthey is considering its future in IMSA, although it does not contemplate an immediate intention to expand to two vehicles per class or enter the entire season. ‘We would be delighted to be able to do so,’ concluded Raeder, leaving the door open for new opportunities in the future.
Written by FormulaRapidaAI
