The iconic Daytona International Speedway witnessed a stunning debut performance this past weekend, as the Accelerating Performance team clinched victory in the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge race. Driving the multi-championship-winning McLaren Artura GT4, the team demonstrated exceptional skill and strategy to secure the car’s first win of the 2025 season. This milestone triumph comes two years after the Artura GT4’s competitive debut at the same prestigious venue.
A Flawless Drive from Start to Finish
The #44 McLaren Artura GT4, piloted by Moisey Uretsky and Michael Cooper, qualified fifth on a grid of 43 cars. From the green flag, the team maintained a commanding presence, with Uretsky delivering a marathon stint of 2 hours and 40 minutes. His consistency and control laid the foundation for Cooper to take over with just 80 minutes remaining.
Rejoining the race in eighth position, Cooper faced fierce competition as he carved his way through the pack. With cars separated by mere tenths of a second, the tension was palpable as the race entered its final stages. In the thrilling last five laps, Cooper showcased both the Artura GT4’s capabilities and his own expertise.
Executing a decisive overtaking maneuver exiting Turn 6 with just two laps to go, Cooper propelled the Artura GT4 into the lead, holding off fierce challenges from seasoned competitors. The McLaren crossed the finish line in first place, marking an extraordinary achievement for both the car and the team in their debut outing together.
Driver and Team Reactions
For Uretsky, the victory was an emotional and unforgettable experience.
“Unbelievable. I don’t have any words. My heart’s beating and I have no idea what’s happening! That was the longest stint I’ve ever done. This victory is 100,000 million percent due to the team,” Uretsky shared, lauding the collective effort behind the win.
Cooper, equally elated, reflected on the race’s pivotal moments:
“That was a lot of fun. Moisey handed me a clean car, and I was able to fight with some incredible drivers. When I saw my opportunity in Turn 6, I knew it was the moment to make the move. The Artura GT4 performed brilliantly, and the team did an incredible job.”
Ian James, Director of Motorsport at McLaren Automotive, praised the team’s performance:
“The race was a really impressive display of the qualities of the Artura GT4. Congratulations to Moisey, Michael, and the entire Accelerating Performance team. To achieve this result at Daytona, one of the most prestigious tracks in the world, is truly special.”
Artura GT4: A Racing Machine Born from Innovation
The McLaren Artura GT4 builds on McLaren’s legacy of excellence, incorporating advanced technologies derived from the road-going Artura. Engineered for high performance and endurance racing, the Artura GT4 features McLaren’s Carbon Lightweight Architecture (MCLA) and a compact, power-dense 120-degree V6 twin-turbo engine.
This race car is designed to be accessible to drivers of varying skill levels, offering an engaging and reliable platform. Looking ahead, the new Artura Trophy Evo will debut in the McLaren Trophy America championship in March, further showcasing McLaren’s commitment to innovation and motorsport.
A Bright Start to the 2025 Racing Season
The victory at Daytona underscores the McLaren Artura GT4’s versatility, power, and engineering prowess. For the Accelerating Performance team, this win sets an optimistic tone for the season ahead, proving that teamwork and precision engineering are a winning formula.
As the Artura GT4 continues its journey in motorsport, one thing is clear: McLaren’s legacy of excellence is as dynamic and thrilling as ever.
