Gradient Racing Overview
Gradient Racing is an American sports car racing team competing in the GTD class of the IMSA SportsCar Championship. Founded in 2018 by Andris Laivins, the team is based in Austin, Texas, and operates Acura NSX GT3 cars. Known for its competitive line-ups, Gradient Racing has established itself as a strong presence in high-profile GT racing series, achieving its first major victory at the 2022 Petit Le Mans.
Founding and Organizational Origins
Gradient Racing was founded at the end of 2018 by Andris Laivins, a former team manager at CJ Wilson Racing. The creation of the team was driven by Laivins’ vision to build a competitive sports car racing organization centered around Acura machinery. The team quickly formed a technical alliance with Acura, acquiring an Acura NSX GT3 chassis to compete at a high level. From its inception, Gradient Racing focused on assembling skilled personnel and drivers to establish a strong operational foundation.
Growth Into IMSA SportsCar Championship Competition
Gradient Racing made its competitive debut in the 2019 Blancpain GT World Challenge America, fielding the Acura NSX GT3. Early driver line-ups included Till Bechtolsheimer and Ryan Eversley, with subsequent changes bringing in Marc Miller and Trent Hindman. The team finished fourth in the Pro-Am Cup that season, demonstrating promising potential. In 2020, Gradient Racing transitioned to the IMSA SportsCar Championship, competing in the GTD class with the Acura NSX GT3. The team participated primarily in the WeatherTech Sprint Cup rounds, adapting to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, including competing at Daytona International Raceway.
Gradient Racing Competitive Journey
Since its debut, Gradient Racing has progressed steadily through competitive GT racing series. The team has developed its driver roster and technical capabilities, moving from initial participation in GT World Challenge America to establishing a consistent presence in the IMSA SportsCar Championship.
Early Seasons and Development (2019–2020)
Gradient Racing’s first competitive season in 2019 saw the team fielding Acura NSX GT3 cars in the Blancpain GT World Challenge America. The driver lineup featured Till Bechtolsheimer and Ryan Eversley, with Eversley replaced mid-season by Marc Miller and later Trent Hindman. The team secured a fourth-place finish in the Pro-Am Cup, marking a solid foundation for future growth. In 2020, Gradient Racing shifted focus to the IMSA SportsCar Championship’s GTD class, competing mainly in the WeatherTech Sprint Cup rounds. Drivers included Till Bechtolsheimer and Marc Miller. Despite pandemic-related challenges, the team managed a best race result of seventh at Sebring and finished 14th in the GTD standings.
Breakthrough in IMSA SportsCar Championship (2021–2022)
In 2021, Gradient Racing continued its IMSA campaign with the Acura NSX GT3, retaining drivers Till Bechtolsheimer and Marc Miller. The team achieved its first podium finish at the Detroit Sports Car Classic, securing third place. Mario Farnbacher joined the team to replace an injured Marc Miller at Virginia International Raceway. Gradient Racing concluded the season 13th in the GTD standings. The 2022 season marked a significant breakthrough, with the team competing in the Michelin Endurance Cup rounds. The driver lineup included Till Bechtolsheimer, Mario Farnbacher, and Kyffin Simpson, with Marc Miller participating in select events. The team earned a second-place finish at Long Beach and secured its first overall victory at the Petit Le Mans despite starting last on the GTD grid due to qualifying penalties. Farnbacher overtook the race leader in the closing minutes, and the team maintained the lead under caution to claim the win.
Modern Program and Current Direction (2023–Present)
Gradient Racing continues to operate under the ownership and management of Andris Laivins. The team maintains its partnership with Acura, running the NSX GT3 in the IMSA SportsCar Championship. The current driver lineup features Till Bechtolsheimer, Tatiana Calderón, Joey Hand, and Harry Tincknell, reflecting a blend of experience and talent. The team focuses on endurance racing events and aims to build on its recent successes by enhancing technical capabilities and expanding competitive opportunities.
Philosophy and Competitive Strengths
Gradient Racing emphasizes strong technical alliances, driver development, and strategic race execution. The team excels in endurance events, leveraging consistent performance, adaptability, and teamwork to achieve competitive results.
Key Milestones and Major Moments
Notable milestones include the team’s first podium in the IMSA SportsCar Championship at the 2021 Detroit Sports Car Classic and its first victory at the 2022 Petit Le Mans. These achievements underscore Gradient Racing’s rapid progression and growing stature in GT racing.
Gradient Racing Achievements and Results
Gradient Racing has steadily accumulated competitive results since its inception, highlighted by podium finishes and a landmark victory in the IMSA SportsCar Championship. The team’s achievements reflect its commitment to excellence and growth within GT racing.
IMSA SportsCar Championship Achievements
Gradient Racing’s first podium came in 2021 with a third-place finish at the Detroit Sports Car Classic. The team’s breakthrough victory occurred in 2022 at the Petit Le Mans, marking its first overall win in the IMSA GTD class. These results demonstrate the team’s competitive evolution and ability to contend in endurance racing’s premier events.