Cadillac Whelen Overview
Cadillac Whelen, operated under Action Express Racing, is a leading sports car racing team competing in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship. Founded in 2010 and based in Denver, North Carolina, the team is owned by NASCAR CEO Jim France and managed by Bob Johnson and former NASCAR champion crew chief Gary Nelson. The team fields the No. 31 Cadillac V-LMDh and has secured six IMSA Drivers’ Championships, including multiple victories at the Rolex 24 at Daytona, establishing itself as a dominant force in American sports car racing.
Founding and Organizational Origins
Action Express Racing was established in 2010 with the goal of competing at the highest levels of sports car racing. The team was created to participate initially in the Rolex Sports Car Series, quickly making a mark by winning the 2010 Rolex 24 at Daytona. The founding vision focused on building a competitive program with strong technical expertise and experienced leadership. Early operations were centered around assembling a skilled driver lineup and developing a reliable race car, supported by a Porsche-based engine developed by a third party.
Growth Into IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship Competition
As the Rolex Sports Car Series evolved into the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship in 2014, Cadillac Whelen transitioned smoothly into the new series. The team consolidated its efforts around the No. 5 and later the No. 31 entries, expanding its technical partnerships and driver roster. Under the leadership of Jim France, Bob Johnson, and Gary Nelson, the team enhanced its operational capabilities and forged a strong relationship with Cadillac as its manufacturer. This period saw the team develop its competitive edge, securing multiple wins and championships while expanding its presence in endurance racing events.
Cadillac Whelen Competitive Journey
Since its inception, Cadillac Whelen has progressed from a strong newcomer to a dominant competitor in American sports car racing. The team has consistently improved its performance, securing multiple championships and race victories across the Rolex Sports Car Series and the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship.
Early Seasons and Development (2010–2013)
Cadillac Whelen began its competitive journey with a remarkable victory at the 2010 Rolex 24 at Daytona, showcasing its potential from the outset. The initial driver lineup included João Barbosa, Terry Borcheller, Ryan Dalziel, and Mike Rockenfeller. Despite the early success, the team faced challenges in maintaining consistent podium finishes in the following seasons. By 2011, the team expanded its efforts with additional entries and drivers, achieving podiums and race wins that laid the foundation for future success. The team also transitioned to Corvette Daytona Prototypes in 2013, further enhancing its competitive capabilities.
Breakthrough in IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship (2014–2023)
The formation of the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship in 2014 marked a turning point for Cadillac Whelen. The team focused on the No. 5 car driven by Barbosa and Christian Fittipaldi, winning the inaugural championship and the North American Endurance Cup. In 2015, the team expanded by assuming operations of the No. 31 Whelen Racing team, adding drivers like Dane Cameron and Eric Curran, and securing multiple race wins and podiums. Throughout the following years, Cadillac Whelen continued to dominate, winning six IMSA Drivers’ Championships by 2023. The team adapted to new Cadillac prototype models, including the Dallara-based Cadillac DPi-V.R and the Cadillac V-LMDh, maintaining its competitive edge. Notable drivers such as Filipe Albuquerque, Felipe Nasr, Pipo Derani, and NASCAR champions Jimmie Johnson and Chase Elliott have contributed to the team’s sustained success.
Modern Program and Current Direction (2023–Present)
Currently, Cadillac Whelen operates with strong manufacturer support from Cadillac and leadership from team owner Jim France, team principal Bob Johnson, and manager Gary Nelson. The team fields the No. 31 Cadillac V-LMDh with a lineup including Earl Bamber, Jack Aitken, Frederik Vesti, and Felipe Drugovich. The program emphasizes continuous technical development, strategic race execution, and nurturing driver talent. Looking ahead to the 2025 season, the team aims to build on its legacy by competing at the highest level in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship and continuing its tradition of excellence.
Philosophy and Competitive Strengths
Cadillac Whelen’s core identity centers on endurance racing expertise, technical innovation, and strategic precision. The team excels in long-distance events, leveraging strong driver lineups and reliable machinery to maintain consistent performance. Their approach combines aggressive race strategy with meticulous preparation, enabling them to capitalize on opportunities during endurance races.
Key Milestones and Major Moments
Key milestones include the team’s inaugural victory at the 2010 Rolex 24 at Daytona, multiple IMSA Drivers’ Championships spanning from 2014 to 2023, and record-setting performances such as the 2018 Rolex 24 distance record. The integration of high-profile drivers from diverse racing backgrounds and the successful transition to new prototype technologies have also marked significant moments in the team’s history.
Cadillac Whelen Achievements and Results
Cadillac Whelen has established an impressive record of accomplishments in American sports car racing, highlighted by six IMSA Drivers’ Championships and numerous race victories, including multiple wins at the prestigious Rolex 24 at Daytona.
IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship Achievements
The team has secured six IMSA Drivers’ Championships in 2014, 2015, 2016, 2018, 2021, and 2023. Their first championship came in the inaugural season of the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, setting the tone for continued dominance. The team has consistently performed well in endurance events, capturing the North American Endurance Cup multiple times and achieving victories at key races such as the 12 Hours of Sebring and Petit Le Mans.
Conference and Divisional Achievements
While specific conference and divisional titles are not documented, Cadillac Whelen’s success in endurance racing and overall IMSA competition reflects its strength within the series’ competitive structure. The team has developed numerous drivers who have excelled at national and international levels, contributing to its reputation as a premier racing organization.
Series Achievements
Beyond IMSA, Cadillac Whelen’s origins in the Rolex Sports Car Series included immediate success with a win at the 2010 Rolex 24 at Daytona. The team’s evolution and sustained competitiveness in the WeatherTech SportsCar Championship underscore its ability to adapt and thrive across series changes and technological advancements.
