DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – Following an incident in IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge practice on Wednesday afternoon, Wright Motorsports officials have made the decision to retire the No. 16 Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 Clubsport for the remainder of the weekend.
As a result the Wright Motorsports car’s leading driver, Ryan Hardwick, will also withdraw from the Rolex 24 at Daytona Int’l Speedway this weekend.
Hardwick’s condition is stable and the driver was kept overnight at a local hospital for observation, but due to a concussion he will not be able to drive the No. 16 Porsche 911 GT3 R in Saturday’s Rolex 24. The 1st Phorm entry will still compete in the event, with Trent Hindman joining the existing Wright Motorsports roster of Patrick Long, Jan Heylen, and Klaus Bachler.
“It’s unfortunate that I won’t be able to join the team for the big race,” said Hardwick. “I wish I was driving with them, but sadly that won’t be possible. When I first learned I wouldn’t be able to drive, Trent was immediately one of the first drivers I thought of to step in. I want the team to continue and our 1st Phorm car to be on track to compete in this event. I’ve followed Trent’s career for the last few years, and I think he’ll be a good fit. Trent is joining a really great team, and I wish them the best of luck this weekend. He’s in the best hands.”
Already at the circuit, Hindman was able to begin getting settled with his new team on Thursday morning, immediately beginning the team introductions, seat fittings, and team procedure reviews, in preparation for the first practice later in the morning.
The 25-year-old American has several sports car racing championships under his belt, most recently winning the 2020 GT World Challenge America Silver Championship, as well as the 2019 IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar championship GTD class title.
“First and foremost, what’s most important is that Ryan is okay,” said Hindman. “Filling in for the Rolex 24 under these circumstances is never ideal, but I am grateful to John, Ryan, and the Wright Motorsports team for trusting me with this opportunity. The No. 16 Porsche looks to be a strong contender for victory come Sunday, and I certainly look forward to doing everything I can to make it happen.”