As we approach the IMSA season closer at Le Mans Petit another driver lineup had been announced for the competition. Porsche Penske will employ two time Indy Car Champion Josef Newgarden. The team announced today that Newgarden will join season committed drivers Matt Campbell and Felipe Nasr. The drivers will pilot the No. 7 Porsche Penske Motorsport Porsche 963 at Road Atlanta Michelin Raceway for the 2023 season finale. Le Mans Petit is a 10 hour endurance race that will feature all 5 IMSA WeatherTech Sportscar Championship classes.
In an interview with IMSA.com Newgarden stated, “I have a lot of respect and admiration for both the Penske and Porsche brands, and the combination between the two through Porsche Penske Motorsport is a dream scenario for any racing car driver and is an absolute honor to be a part of. Watching the dedicated teams build this program from the ground up over the last couple of years has been exciting to watch, and seeing both Porsche 963s get wins this year and compete for championships shows that all the hard work has paid off. My goal is to add to the program and help support the tremendous efforts that Porsche Penske Motorsport has put in place. With some good fortune, I’m sure we can turn effort into results together.”
Words from Porsche Penske Motorsport Managing Director Jonathan Diuguid
Newgarden has the necessary experience but it will be a change up from his normal routine in Indy Car. Jonathan Diuguid, PPM managing director, stated. “Josef has increased his exposure to sports car racing already in 2023 with a test in the Team Penske LMP2, as well as raced in Daytona in 2023. In addition, he got his first exposure to the 963 in early June at Road America. With several testing days for the team at Road Atlanta, we are confident that both Laurens and Josef will be fully prepared to deliver for the team and have a positive result in the final race of the season.”
The move will provide plenty of time for Newgarden to get acquainted with the car. Le Mans Petit is a 4 day event with the main race taking place on Saturday October 14th 2023.