Vasser Sullivan Racing
The Lexus RC F GT3 is powered by a naturally aspirated V8 — a rarity in modern GT3 racing, where most competitors use turbocharged engines. This means the Lexus revs higher, sounds distinctly different, and requires a different driving technique than turbocharged rivals. Some drivers love it; some find it an adjustment. Either way, you'll hear it coming.
Race Entries
About Vasser Sullivan Racing
Vasser Sullivan Racing is the premier Lexus team in IMSA, established by two motorsport personalities with very different but complementary backgrounds. Jimmy Vasser is a former IndyCar Series champion (1996), having raced in the top tier of American open-wheel racing at the same time as Mario Andretti, Al Unser Jr., and Michael Andretti. His racing credibility is unquestioned. James "Sulli" Sullivan brings business acumen and operational discipline to the partnership.
Together they built Vasser Sullivan into the definitive North American home for Lexus GT racing — fielding the RC F GT3 in both the GTD Pro and GTD classes simultaneously, a significant undertaking that requires deep logistical and engineering resources.
The Car: Lexus RC F GT3
The RC F GT3 is the GT3 racing version of Lexus's RC F coupe, Toyota/Lexus's GT racing flagship. What makes it stand out is the engine: a naturally aspirated V8 that produces its power by revving to high RPM rather than using turbochargers to force-feed air into a smaller engine. This gives it a distinctive, high-pitched wail compared to the turbocharged whoosh of competitors like Porsche, Ferrari, and BMW.
Naturally aspirated engines respond differently to driver inputs — power delivery is more linear, there's no turbo lag to manage, but peak power requires keeping the engine in a narrow RPM band. It's a different driving experience and strategy challenge compared to turbocharged rivals.
GTD Pro vs. GTD: Two Classes, One Team
Running two cars in different classes at the same event is a major commitment. The #14 competes in GTD Pro, where all three drivers must be fully professional (FIA Platinum or Gold rated). The #12 in GTD allows a mix of professional and gentleman (amateur) drivers. Having both programs under one roof means shared engineering resources and setup data — a real competitive advantage when properly leveraged.
Jack Hawksworth (Great Britain) is one of IMSA's most accomplished GT drivers, having spent years as Vasser Sullivan's lead professional. His racecraft and tire management are highly regarded in the paddock.
Ben Barnicoat (Great Britain) is a British professional GT driver who has competed in both IMSA and European championships. Together with Hawksworth, they form one of the strongest all-professional pairs in the class.
Kyle Kirkwood (USA) is an American IndyCar crossover — a full-time IndyCar Series competitor who joins the GTD Pro entry for Sebring. IndyCar drivers bring extraordinary car control and bravery from open-wheel racing, though the physical demands and driving style of a GT3 car differ significantly.
Aaron Telitz (USA) is a familiar face in IMSA GT racing with solid results across multiple seasons.
Mikkel Pedersen (Denmark) is a Danish GT professional with European racing background.
Frankie Montecalvo (USA) is an American GT specialist who has been a fixture in IMSA's GT classes for years.
GTD Pro vs GTD
GTD Pro requires all-professional drivers. GTD allows gentleman drivers alongside professionals. Same cars, different competition levels. Learn more →