Lexus RC F GT3 Teams Face Setbacks in Detroit IMSA Race

The Vasser Sullivan Lexus RC F GT3 teams encountered significant late-race incidents at the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship event in Detroit on Saturday, June 1, 2026. Despite strong performances that placed both entries in podium contention, contact and penalties ultimately led to sixth and tenth place finishes in the GTD PRO class. The challenging Lexus RC F GT3 Detroit race saw both cars battle adversity.

No. 14 Lexus RC F GT3's Challenging Finish

Ben Barnicoat began the race from third position in the No. 14 Lexus RC F GT3, maintaining a spot within the top three during his initial 30-minute stint before handing the car over to Jack Hawksworth. The team demonstrated strong pace throughout the early stages of the competition.

On lap 43, Hawksworth experienced contact when a GTP competitor spun his car, an incident for which the other driver received a penalty. Despite this setback, Hawksworth managed to recover and remained in second place. He continued to challenge for the lead late in the race but was subsequently issued a drive-through penalty, which dropped the No. 14 car to a sixth-place finish.

Barnicoat expressed disappointment, stating that the team deserved a win and that external factors prevented it. Hawksworth acknowledged the team's strong car and his efforts to win, accepting the penalty and looking forward to the next event. Despite the disappointing outcome in the Lexus RC F GT3 Detroit race, both drivers expressed determination to perform better in future events.

No. 15 Lexus RC F GT3's Podium Bid Ends Early

The No. 15 Lexus RC F GT3, driven by Chaz Mostert, started from seventh on the grid. Mostert, the 2025 Supercars champion, consistently ran within the top five and even led the GTD PRO field for three laps before pitting and transferring driving duties to Aaron Telitz.

Telitz maintained fourth position until late in the race when, while battling for a podium spot, his car was hit by a Corvette. Although Telitz continued for a few more laps in second place, the contact eventually caused a tire to deflate, forcing an unscheduled pit stop. This incident resulted in the No. 15 car finishing in tenth place.

Telitz reflected on the race, noting that the team had a strong day until the contact with the Corvette, which he believed was an avoidable incident that led to the flat tire and ruined their podium opportunity. Mostert also conveyed his disappointment for Telitz, emphasizing the team's strong performance in the Lexus RC F GT3 Detroit race.

Looking Ahead to Watkins Glen

The Vasser Sullivan Lexus teams are now preparing for their next challenge: a six-hour endurance race. This event is scheduled to take place at Watkins Glen International in upstate New York on Sunday, June 28.

Both Lexus RC F GT3 teams will aim to translate their competitive speed into strong finishes at the upcoming endurance event. The focus remains on overcoming the recent Detroit setbacks and capitalizing on their proven performance capabilities.

The Detroit IMSA race proved to be a test of resilience for the Lexus RC F GT3 teams. Despite the setbacks, their competitive pace and determination highlight Lexus's continued presence in top-tier motorsports. Fans can follow the team's progress at the upcoming Watkins Glen endurance race.