IMSA faces manufacturer grid uncertainty amid esports competition wins

The IMSA WeatherTech Championship faces uncertainty regarding its 2027 season. Projections suggest the GTP class grid may shrink to just four manufacturers and fewer than 10 cars. While the World Endurance Championship (WEC) expects 18 factory entries for its Hypercar class in 2027, IMSA’s prototype participation is declining, with Acura departing and Porsche focusing exclusively on IMSA rather than pursuing WEC and Le Mans until potential rule changes in 2030.

In esports competition, the IMSA Esports Global Championship held its second round of the 2026 season at Sebring International Raceway. The Porsche Coanda Esports Racing Team, driven by Alejandro Sánchez and Charlie Collins, secured a victory in the GTP class despite facing fuel strategy challenges and throttle issues. In the GTD class, the No. 132 Bleu Mercure Esport Porsche, driven by Thibault Cazaubon and Corentin Lassine, won the race by over four seconds.