Inside Honda's Bold IMSA Strategy Shift: HRC Takes Direct Control

Inside Honda's Bold IMSA Strategy Shift: HRC Takes Direct Control

By Michael Anderson

February 7, 2025 at 12:30 AM

Honda's innovative IMSA strategy marks a significant shift in its racing operations, with HRC (Honda Racing Corporation) US now directly managing engineering and strategy for the No.93 Acura ARX-06.

Key changes for 2025:

  • Direct engineering and strategy execution by HRC US employees
  • Internal data processing and feedback loop
  • Collaboration with Meyer Shank Racing (MSR) on the No.60 car

Race car at Rolex IMSA event

Race car at Rolex IMSA event

Benefits of the new approach:

  • Improved data collection and analysis
  • Enhanced simulator correlation
  • Direct feedback for car development
  • Better integration of race strategy with Honda's broader technology goals

Driver lineup strategy:

  • Nick Yelloly: Extensive simulator experience
  • Renger van der Zande: Veteran sports car expertise
  • Both drivers selected specifically for development capabilities

Partnership with Meyer Shank Racing:

  • MSR continues engineering the No.60 car
  • Allows performance comparison between approaches
  • Maintains two-car strategy advantages
  • Builds on decade-plus relationship

Despite MSR's 2023 tire data incident, HRC's new strategy was planned years in advance. The team's third consecutive strong showing at the Rolex 24 demonstrates the potential of this innovative approach as they aim for the 2025 championship.

The program represents Honda's commitment to internal development while maintaining successful partnerships, positioning them for both immediate success and long-term growth in IMSA competition.

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