Hyundai Unveils Ambitious Driver Lineup for 2026 IMSA Race Season

Hyundai Motor America is taking a bold step into the automotive racing world as it announces its driver lineup for the 2026 IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge (IMPC) season. With aspirations for an unprecedented seventh consecutive Manufacturers' Championship, the company is primed for an exciting year of competitions, further solidifying its dominance in the racing arena.

Following a remarkable 2025 season, Hyundai continues to align its expertise with Bryan Herta Autosport (BHA) and Rockwell Autosport Development. This collaboration will see a formidable fleet of five Elantra N TCR vehicles, each promising to deliver thrilling performances as they take to the tracks.

As Bryan Herta, owner of BHA, points out, this season is particularly exciting. “We’re adding a third driver for the Rolex 24 at Daytona—a first for us,” he stated. This additional position welcomes talented Hyundai drivers who are typically involved in competitions outside of IMSA, but have consistently showcased their capabilities. The lineup will feature eight returning professionals across their four entries, presenting a potent combination designed to maintain Hyundai's Championships in the Manufacturer, Team, and Driver categories.

The lineup includes:

- Bryan Herta Autosport Entries

- No. 18 Elantra N TCR: Lance Bergstein and Harry Gottsacker, with Jon Miller joining for Daytona.
- No. 33 Elantra N TCR: Mason Filippi and Bryson Morris, with Josh Buchan joining for Daytona.
- No. 76 Elantra N TCR: Preston Brown and Denis Dupont.
- No. 98 Elantra N TCR: Mark Wilkins and Maddie Aust, with Andre Castro joining for Daytona.

- Rockwell Autosport Development Entry

- No. 15 Elantra N TCR: Daniel Hanley and Doug Oakley, with Eric Rockwell for the Daytona endurance event.

This diverse structure bridges up-and-coming stars with seasoned veterans, thereby maximizing Hyundai’s competitive edge. The talented returning drivers, such as Harry Gottsacker, Mason Filippi, and Mark Wilkins, add invaluable experience to the team dynamics. Notably, Wilkins has a remarkable record of winning races in every season he has competed with BHA.

New talents are also emerging on the roster, including Maddie Aust, returning for her second season, and Denis Dupont, who will team with Preston Brown in the No. 76 vehicle. Andre Castro, having a successful tenure in the Hyundai N Trophy Cup, will join the No. 98 team for Daytona, enhancing the overall performance of the lineup.

International flavor comes in the form of Josh Buchan, an accomplished touring car and GT driver from Australia, who is set to make his mark after clinching a victory at the TCR World Tour event held at the prestigious Macau Grand Prix. Jon Miller is making a return in the No. 18 car alongside Lance Bergstein, after a successful partnership in the previous season.

The partnership between Rockwell Autosport Development and BHA continues, with the No. 15 Elantra N TCR set for a full-season run. This ongoing collaboration not only represents a mutual commitment but also strengthens Hyundai's presence on the IMPC grid.

As the 2026 racing season approaches, the Elantra N TCR cars will flaunt a striking visual identity, which includes the trademark Performance Blue color and distinctive N logo elements that both reflect and enhance Hyundai’s racing spirit. The combination of experienced competitors and energetic newcomers creates an electrifying environment as Hyundai gears up to tackle the challenges ahead.

The season kicks off with the Roar Before the Rolex 24 event on January 16-18, culminating in the BMW M Endurance Challenge at Daytona on January 23. This exhilarating sequence of events marks the beginning of an ambitious journey for Hyundai.

Moreover, Hyundai continues to emphasize its role in community support through initiatives like Hyundai Hope on Wheels. Donating $100 for every lap led by a Hyundai vehicle at each race, this campaign significantly contributes to pediatric cancer research. Building on past successes that raised nearly $80,000 over the past two years, the No. 33 car will prominently feature the Hyundai Hope on Wheels branding in 2026. Additionally, there are pledges for an increase in donations whenever the car podiums or secures wins during the season.

Hyundai Motor America remains committed to technology advancement and consumer satisfaction with its diverse range of vehicles, which include cars, SUVs, and electric models, all while fostering a culture of giving through its community initiatives. Expect 2026 to be another outstanding year for Hyundai as it strives for victory on and off the racetrack.