After making their IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge debut just a few weeks ago at VIRginia International Raceway (VIR), Copeland Motorsports is set to return for a second outing, this time at one of the most iconic venues in the world – the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. The team will once again field the #23 Toyota Supra GT4 EVO2, piloted by Jaxon Bell and Ford Koch, as they look to prove themselves against some of the toughest GT4 competition in North America.
At VIR, Bell and Koch showed strong pace from the start, qualifying third in the GS class. However, a post-qualifying penalty for a minor technical infraction forced the pair to the back of the grid. Despite the setback, the duo charged forward throughout the race to finish 14th, gaining ten positions and leaving the team encouraged about their potential.
Now, with valuable experience under their belts, Copeland Motorsports is focused on delivering a clean weekend at “The Racing Capital of the World.” The IMS road course, a 2.439-mile, 14-turn layout that incorporates parts of the legendary oval, will be a new challenge for the team but one they are eager to take on.
“VIR was a great learning weekend for us, and it showed that we have the pace to compete up front in this championship,” expressed team owner Dean Copeland. “Jaxon and Ford drove well and handled the adversity like veterans. Now, heading into Indy, our goal is to put everything together and fight for a strong result at one of the most historic racetracks in the world.”
Copeland Motorsports now sets its sights on the Brickyard, determined to make their second IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge appearance a standout performance. The weekend begins with two practice sessions on Friday, before qualifying on Saturday morning. The main event, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway 120, will run from 12:40 PM to 2:40 PM ET on Saturday, with fans able to watch live on imsa.com/tv or Peacock TV.
Photo Credit: RTD Media