Filipe Albuquerque views Acura’s exit positively for IMSA

IMSA front-runner Filipe Albuquerque expressed confidence in the future of endurance racing, stating that Acura’s decision to suspend its LMDh programme does not signify the “downfall” of the GTP class. Honda’s luxury brand will conclude its factory participation with the Acura ARX-06 at the end of the current IMSA season, marking a nine-year journey since its return to prototype racing in what was once the DPi class.

This move will leave just four manufacturers competing for overall titles in the North American championship, with LMDh prototypes from Cadillac, Porsche, and BMW contending against Aston Martin’s single LMH vehicle. Albuquerque, who drove for Acura from 2021-2024, noted that he won prestigious races such as the Daytona 24 Hours and Watkins Glen, and he finished second in the championship multiple times during his tenure. While he admitted feeling “sad” about Acura's departure from the series for now, he remains optimistic about the championship's health, pointing to the potential for new manufacturers to join the GTP class in the coming years.

“I don't see it all as a downfall,” Albuquerque told Motorsport.com. “Four manufacturers is still great. We need to agree that 10 or 11 manufacturers overall is not normal; it’s the peak of the peak of all times.” He referenced that, historically, grid sizes from the early 1990s were not as large as the recent years have seen.

Albuquerque highlighted ongoing interest from new entrants such as McLaren, Genesis, and Ford, who may consider aligning their programs with IMSA. Looking ahead to 2027, he speculated that the manufacturer count could potentially rise to seven, surpassing previous figures in the category.

He noted that IMSA’s condition is not diminished by Acura's exit, as there are plans for new entries into the GTP class that could invigorate competition. He also discussed the importance of the North American market for brands like Ford and McLaren, emphasizing that the same tire and car regulations in both IMSA and the WEC provide a unique opportunity to expand their presence.

Albuquerque reflected on the various strategic marketing decisions behind manufacturer participation, reasoning that simpler operations between WEC and IMSA could enhance overall competition. The departure of Acura follows Lamborghini's earlier decision to pause its GTP program after two seasons with the SC63 in 2025. Overall, Albuquerque remains confident that the integrity of endurance racing in America continues to thrive despite the transitions in manufacturer involvement.