Heart of Racing’s #27 Aston Martin Vantage AMR GT3 Evo has been penalised by IMSA for their use of non-homologated parts at the GT Challenge at VIRginia International Raceway.
The findings of a post-race inspection at the ninth round of the 2024 IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, on 25 August, has resulted in the #23 GTD Aston Martin being moved to the back of the category, in reference to 22.7.1. of the sporting regulations.
The car was co-driven by Roman De Angelis and Zacharie Robichon en route to a second-placed finish in the category after the 2-hour and 40-minute GT-only sprint race at the VIR.
In the recently-published stewards’ bulletin, it stated: “During post-Race Technical Inspection, GTD Car #27 was found to have non-Homologated part(s).”
Furthermore, Aston Martin received a $10,000 fine for breaching 2.5.1. of the technical regulations.
As a result of Heart of Racing’s GTD podium loss, the #78 Lamborghini Huracan GT3 EVO2 of Forte Racing has been promoted into second place as championship-leaders Winward Racing (#57 Mercedes-AMG GT3) took third.
Drivers Russell Ward and Phillip Ellis of the #57 Mercedes-AMG thus secured their sixth podium finish this season, finishing at least once on all three places on the podium after four class victories and second position at Watkins Glen.
