Laurin Heinrich is set to return and defend his IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship GTD PRO title. He will be partnered by Porsche ace Klaus Bachler in the No. 77 Porsche 911 GT3 R. Porsche factory driver Alessio Picariello will also join for the endurance rounds, aiming to capture one of the big races with “Rexy.”

Team Principal's Perspective

Team principal Gunnar Jeannette expressed excitement about continuing the partnership with Porsche in the GTD PRO category for 2025. Winning the championship in the first year was a surreal experience, and they are eager to carry that momentum into the new season. Laurin demonstrated his speed and competitiveness in Rexy throughout 2024. With Klaus and Alessio joining him, they have a strong lineup. The introduction of torque sensors is a new development for IMSA teams in GTD, but Porsche's 2024 experience will give them a strong foundation to stay competitive from the start. 1: The team's success in 2024 was remarkable. Laurin started the season with Seb Priaulx and later had various Porsche factory drivers. Together, they scored victories and added another with Michael Christensen at Indianapolis. These victories earned Rexy three gold teeth and gave the team the title in its first season in GTD PRO. They also received the prestigious Michelin All Hands Award, recognizing the crew with the least time spent in the pit lane. 2: This achievement shows the team's ability to perform under pressure and work together effectively. It sets the stage for their 2025 campaign, where they aim to build on their success and continue to dominate the GTD PRO category.

Heinrich's Thoughts

After clinching the 2024 title, Heinrich is happy to be back with AO Racing and Rexy. He enjoyed working with Klaus last season and is pleased to have him back. With Alessio, they have another quick driver from the Porsche family. Heinrich's goal is to win one of the “big ones” like Daytona, Sebring, and Petit. He thanks AO Racing and Porsche for giving them a strong package to defend their title. 1: Heinrich's experience and determination make him a formidable force in the IMSA series. His success in 2024 has given him the confidence to aim for even greater achievements in 2025. 2: His partnership with Klaus and Alessio adds to the team's strength. Together, they will strive to make Rexy even more dominant on the track.

Bachler's Return

Bachler's last full season in IMSA competition was 2023 with Pfaff Motorsports. In 2023-24, he won the Asian Le Mans Series GT championship with Pure Rxcing and had three starts in the WeatherTech Championship last season. He is excited to be back in IMSA, competing in the GTD PRO class. Partnering with AO is something he looks forward to. With Laurin and Alessio, he has two fast and smart teammates he respects and enjoys working with. He thanks Porsche Motorsport and AO for the opportunity. 1: Bachler's experience and skills will be a valuable addition to the team. His success in other championships shows his ability to perform at a high level. 2: His enthusiasm for the new season is infectious and will likely inspire the entire team to perform at their best.

Picariello's Joining

Picariello is happy to join AO Racing, Laurin, and Klaus as the third driver for the long races in IMSA. He respects them both and believes they will form a strong trio with the whole crew. He is looking forward to fighting for the big trophies. 1: Picariello's addition brings another dimension to the team. His skills and experience will complement those of Laurin and Klaus. 2: With all three drivers working together, they have a good chance of achieving their goals and making a mark in the IMSA series.The 2025 WeatherTech SportsCar Championship begins with the Rolex 24 At Daytona on Jan. 23-26, preceded by the Roar Before the 24 test weekend on Jan. 17-19.