On March 23, 2026, Manthey celebrated a notable victory in the GTD Pro category during the 74th edition of the 12 Hours of Sebring with their Porsche 911 GT3 R, known as “Grello”. This triumph marks the team’s first win in IMSA, secured thanks to the skills of drivers Thomas Preining, Klaus Bachler, and Ricardo Feller.
The competition was intense, with prominent rivals including the iconic AO Racing Porsche 911 GT3 R, known as “Roxy”. The key to victory was a bold maneuver by Preining, who managed to overtake Harry King during the antepenultimate hour of the race. Manthey’s team leader, Patrick Arkenau, praised the perfect strategy that allowed managing a crucial advantage at a decisive moment.
With this competition, Manthey has demonstrated its adaptability to IMSA, achieving its first triumph in only its second race. The day was a resounding success for Porsche, which also achieved a double victory in the GTP category thanks to Penske.
The last time Porsche had achieved a victory in two categories simultaneously was in 2008, with the RS Spyder and the 911 GT3 RSR. This double triumph once again underscores Porsche’s strength, 18 years after the last of its combined successes.
Bachler celebrated his third victory at Sebring and emphasized the significance of this day. “The car’s performance has been exceptional, and the balance, especially at the end of the race, has been a great help,” he commented. “The events of today make it a memorable day.”
Preining highlighted the relentless competition in the North American championship and shared his satisfaction with the success achieved so quickly. “As a European team, competing here is a real challenge, so winning in our second race is an impressive achievement,” he declared.
The race did not turn out as fortunate for Roxy, which finished in second position. Tandy, who drove the #77 alongside King and Alessio Picariello, found motivation to improve after a challenging previous season at Daytona.
After this triumph, Manthey is preparing to return to its competition territory, focusing on the DTM and the 24 Hours of Nürburgring. The “Grello” will not return to the U.S. until June to take part in the 6 Hours of Watkins Glen.
Nicki Raeder, CEO of Manthey, has warned the competition that the “Grello” will return stronger: “This race has demonstrated the high level of IMSA. We have a lot to learn, but every experience is an opportunity for growth, and we are excited to keep improving in the championship.”
Written by FormulaRapidaAI
