The Iron Dames have withdrawn from this weekend’s six-hour IMSA Endurance race at Watkins Glen as Michelle Gatting recovers from her injury.
On the test day before the recent 24 Hours of Le Mans, the #85 Porsche 911 LMGT3.R dropped on her foot during pit stop practice.
Gatting suffered a fractured foot as a result, unable to contest the Iron Dames’ seventh consecutive Le Mans start, of which Gatting had driven in all before her injury.
Sarah Bovy replaced Gatting at the fourth FIA World Endurance Championship round on 14-15 June, and Gatting will continue her recovery process by missing the Six Hours of the Glen on 22 June.
An Iron Dames statement posted on social media read:
“With heavy hearts, we announce that the Iron Dames have been forced to withdraw from this weekend’s IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship round at Watkins Glen.
“This difficult decision comes as a result of the injury Michelle Gatting sustained in the lead-up to the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Michelle’s health and recovery are our top priorities at this moment in time.
“This is a hard moment for our team, and especially painful knowing how much we were looking forward to racing in front of our incredibly dedicated American fans.
“We’re deeply grateful for your continued support through every high and low.
“We remain determined and resilient. We’ll be back soon, stronger than ever, together.”
The Iron Dames finished 11th (GTD class) at the previous IMSA Endurance Cup round, the 12 Hours of Sebring.
Motorsport Week wishes a smooth recovery for Gatting, who is a key driver within the Iron Dames’ ongoing motorsport journey, also welcoming Ben Barnicoat’s return after his three-month recovery process after suffering a biking injury before Sebring.
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