Lexus Vasser Sullivan Closes Season Strong with Podium Finish at Petit Le Mans

Lexus and Vasser Sullivan capped off an impressive IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship season with a third-place podium finish at the 2025 Petit Le Mans, held at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta. Drivers Jack Hawksworth, Parker Thompson, and Frankie Montecalvo piloted the No. 12 Lexus RC F GT3 to the podium, marking the fifth time in the past six years that Lexus has finished in the top three at the renowned Georgia circuit.

Starting from 11th position, Montecalvo skillfully navigated through the 12-turn, 2.54-mile course, keeping the car clean and competitive as the team climbed steadily through the field. Thompson maintained strong pace through the middle stages, setting up Hawksworth to take the wheel for the final three hours. Displaying composure and precision under pressure, Hawksworth held off the competition to secure the team’s fifth podium finish of the season and a third-place finish in the GTD championship standings.

In the GTD PRO class, teammates Ben Barnicoat, Aaron Telitz, and Kyle Kirkwood showed strong pace early on in the No. 14 Lexus RC F GT3, running among the top three for much of the race after Telitz qualified on the front row. Unfortunately, contact from another competitor caused a tire puncture late in the race, forcing an unscheduled pit stop. Despite the setback, Barnicoat battled back to finish sixth after 10 grueling hours of racing.

Saturday’s results helped Lexus secure fifth place in the GTD manufacturer’s championship and seventh in GTD PRO, underscoring the brand’s consistent performance throughout the 2025 season.

Reflecting on the team’s achievements, Hawksworth praised the crew’s determination:

“It was a really nice way to finish the season. To get on the podium is a massive morale boost for everybody. We battled all day, the strategy was spot-on, and the car came alive when it mattered most.”

Thompson echoed the sentiment, highlighting the team’s resilience:

“This third-place finish feels really good. We pushed through adversity like we always do, and Jack drove like a lion at the end holding off that Aston Martin. This is great momentum heading into next year.”

The 2026 IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship season kicks off with the Rolex 24 at Daytona on January 24, where Lexus Racing will once again take on the best in endurance racing. Fans can follow the action on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok by using #LexusPerformance.

With determination, teamwork, and unwavering drive, Lexus and Vasser Sullivan close another thrilling season—already setting their sights on victory in 2026.