IMSA - First win in 2024 for TDS Racing at Indianapolis

Before returning to the European Le Mans Series this weekend at Mugello, TDS Racing was on track in IMSA at Indianapolis with its Oreca 07 driven by Steven Thomas, Mikkel Jensen and Hunter McElrea. The French team run by Xavier Combet and Jacques Morello pulled out all the stops to claim its first win of the season, its second in a row at Indianapolis. 

Steven Thomas and TDS Racing are now fourth in the LMP2 championship ahead of the Petit Le Mans finale. The team's gentleman driver is in third place in the Jim Trueman Award, synonymous with an invitation to the 2025 Le Mans 24 Hours. Until the big finale, TDS Racing leads the Endurance Championship on equal points with Inter Europol Competition.

Taking part in a race at Indianapolis is always a special moment,’ said Xavier Combet after the race. We're incredibly lucky to be racing on this iconic circuit, which is steeped in history and prestige. Last year's victory has enabled us to approach this meeting in the best possible conditions, with confidence and ambition."

The tests showed the potential of the French team, as confirmed by the co-owner of TDS Racing. "From the very first two test sessions, we were extremely productive, optimising every aspect of our preparation. Steven put in a remarkable performance in qualifying, placing the car second on the grid, a solid result which augured well for the race.

With its changeable weather, the Indianapolis race and its six-hour format couldn't be said to have been a restful one. ‘The start was on a wet track, but despite the extremely tricky weather conditions, Steven showed exemplary composure, making no mistakes,’ enthuses Xavier Combet. We're incredibly proud of him for his control and calm. Hunter and Mikkel, in turn, put in some high-quality stints on a track that was full of changes and pitfalls, not least because of the heavy traffic. Their ability to adapt quickly to these conditions was decisive." 

 Before kissing the bricks, it was necessary to put in place a perfect strategy, which is never easy in IMSA. The brilliant strategy of our engineers, combined with the impeccable pit stops made by our mechanics, enhanced our overall performance,’ points out the team principal. Thanks to the perfect synergy between all the members of the team, we have achieved a second brilliant victory on this legendary track. I'm very proud and happy for the whole team. Every member of the team deserves this victory, which is the result of hard work and a shared passion."