David Wilson oversees Lexus Racing and the Vasser Sullivan team, which clinched the title last year with British drivers Jack Hawksworth and Ben Barnicoat. The 2024 season kicked off strongly at Daytona, where the sister #12 RC F car secured the marque’s first-ever pole in the pro-am class for the Rolex 24.
Despite the positive start, Wilson emphasizes that success in the qualifying and even securing the class pole may not hold much significance in the 24-hour race itself. With 34 competitors across the GTD categories in the series opener, Wilson warns that the real test begins with the demanding 24-hour race.
While reflecting on the achievements of the previous season and the momentum it brought, Wilson acknowledges the increased challenges for the current year. With 10 other cars in the Pro class and the introduction of new competitors like Ford and Corvette, Team Lexus faces stiff competition
Despite the aging condition of their car, Wilson emphasizes that execution, minimizing mistakes, and strategic planning will be crucial for success.
In the qualifying rounds at Daytona, Parker Thompson secured the GTD pole in the #12 Lexus, while Jack Hawksworth narrowly missed the top spot in GTD Pro. This positions them at 25th and 26th overall for the start of the race.
Thompson expresses his excitement about claiming the pole, highlighting the journey from spotting two years ago to now achieving the first Rolex 24 pole for the team and Lexus.
Hawksworth, partnered with Barnicoat, Mike Conway, and IndyCar star Kyle Kirkwood, shares the team’s positive outlook but acknowledges the unpredictable nature of the race until the final hours. Despite uncertainties, both drivers are determined to give their best effort from a favorable starting position.