Mustang Challenge Kicks Off Lone Star Le Mans with Free Practices

The roar of engines filled the air at the Circuit of The Americas (COTA) on Friday, as the Mustang Challenge took to the track for two practice sessions, marking the beginning of the penultimate event of the 2025 season. The COTA race is a doubleheader weekend, hosting the final two races of the season and serving as a crucial battleground for drivers vying for championship glory in the Dark Horse, Dark Horse Legends, and Dark Horse Stars categories.

With only one race event remaining after this weekend, every lap and every position is vital for drivers seeking to solidify or improve their standing. Friday’s practice sessions, while free of major incidents, provided the teams with essential data and a chance to fine-tune their machines for the high-stakes weekend ahead.

The event also brought some notable driver storylines to the fore. Will Lucas, a dominant force in the non-points Mustang Cup Miles Cup and Parnelli Cup championships, was officially confirmed to be competing in his first points-paying Mustang Challenge race. Having previously competed at the non-points Le Mans Invitational in June, Lucas’s participation adds another layer of competition to the already intense field.

Another returning fan favorite is Paolo Salvatore, who made a triumphant return to COTA after a podium finish at the last race at Virginia International Raceway. Salvatore’s weekend is made even more special by the presence of his wife, Michelle. The couple famously married at the track after Salvatore’s podium finish, a story that captured the hearts of racing fans.

The Mustang Challenge is running as a support series for the main event, the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) Lone Star Le Mans. This marks the second time in 2025 that the series has joined the WEC, having previously appeared at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in France. With the final races of the season on the line, the stage is set for a thrilling weekend of high-speed action.