MMG Honda Civic Type R TCR Achieves Second Place at CTMP

Honda's Montreal Motorsports Group (MMG) team secured a second-place finish, achieving a Honda CTMP podium, at the Canadian Tire Motorsport Park 120, driving the #93 Honda Civic Type R TCR. This result marks the third podium for Honda in the 2026 IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge season, maintaining their position in the Manufacturers' Championship race. The caution-filled event required strategic fuel management from all competitors.

Race Overview and Early Stages

The Canadian Tire Motorsport Park 120 presented a challenging race environment, characterized by frequent caution periods. Honda started the weekend strong, claiming its third consecutive TCR pole position with MMG's LP Montour. KMW Motorsports with TMR Engineering's #5 Honda, driven by Rocco Pasquarella, qualified second, completing a front-row lockout for the manufacturer.

A significant incident early in the two-hour race led to an extended full-course caution. This yellow flag period prompted the entire TCR field to pit for a short fuel fill and driver changes, compressing the strategic window for teams.

Strategic Racing and Key Incidents

During the pit stops, MMG's #93 Honda Civic Type R TCR temporarily lost its lead, dropping from first to second. KMW Motorsports with TMR Engineering also faced setbacks, falling from second to fifth after a lengthy driver change. With limited green-flag racing remaining, the event transformed into a contest of fuel conservation.

MMG successfully managed its fuel strategy, holding onto second place until the finish, securing another Honda CTMP podium for the manufacturer. However, KMW Motorsports with TMR Engineering experienced late-race contact when a GS-class car made contact with their Honda in the final corner with 20 minutes left. This incident caused damage and momentum loss, relegating the team to a sixth-place finish. Pegram Racing's #72 Honda Civic Type R TCR finished 11th.

Championship Implications and Future Outlook

The second-place finish at the Canadian Tire Motorsport Park 120, a strong Honda CTMP podium result, keeps Honda in contention for the 2026 IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge Manufacturers' Championship. Honda currently trails the leader by 50 points, with several rounds remaining in the season.

Drivers Karl Wittmer and LP Montour of the #93 MMG Honda Civic Type R TCR highlighted the intense fuel management required during the race. Wittmer noted the challenge of balancing corner speed with fuel savings on the demanding track. Honda is scheduled to return to the track for the Road America 120 on August 1st, 2026.

This consistent podium performance underscores Honda's competitive presence in the 2026 IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge. The team's ability to navigate challenging race conditions and execute strategic decisions will be crucial as they continue their pursuit of the Manufacturers' Championship in upcoming events.