IMSA VP Challenge's 2027 endurance format

Who this fits

IMSA VP Racing SportsCar Challenge suits a driver who wants a shared-car IMSA program with races shorter than the major endurance classics. IMSA has announced an all-endurance format for 2027.

The announcement specifies seven races ranging from 90 minutes to three hours. VP Challenge is a separate championship from Michelin Pilot Challenge, even where both involve GT4 cars.

Cars and co-driving

The announced 2027 plan includes LMP3 prototypes, GSX GT4 cars and a planned BMW M2 class. Check the final class and technical requirements before choosing a car.

Two drivers per car are required. Preparation includes a shared cockpit, clear feedback conventions, driver-change practice and consistent laps on both sides of the handover. LMP3 and GT4 are different platforms with different driving demands.

Roster restrictions

For the announced 2027 format, at least one driver must be FIA Bronze or Silver. Platinum drivers are prohibited. A Gold driver is allowed only alongside a Bronze co-driver. The complete pairing matters, not one driver’s individual rating.

IMSA driver membership and approval go through the applicable IMSA process. The IMSA 2027 announcement defines the format and roster restrictions.

How I help

I coach the shared-car side of this format at the track and in the simulator. We work on the car, the teammate pairing and the preparation objective, and I review your data with you. Where the class rules allow it, I can share the car with you.

Questions drivers ask

Is 2027 VP Challenge still a sprint series?

No. IMSA has announced the all-endurance 2027 plan, with two drivers and races from 90 minutes to three hours.

Can a Gold driver partner with a Silver?

No. Gold is permitted only with a Bronze co-driver.

Is GSX the same championship as Pilot Challenge GS?

No. They are separate championships with separate sporting rules and entries. See Pilot Challenge.

Official sources

Read IMSA’s 2027 format announcement, 2027 event information and 2026 sporting regulations.

License routes

Confirmed 2027 two-driver format

IMSA announced seven all-endurance races of 90 minutes to three hours, with two drivers per car. The announced classes are LMP3 and GSX GT4, plus a planned BMW M2 class.

Announced 2027 roster restrictions

At least one driver must be FIA Bronze or Silver. Platinum is prohibited. Gold is permitted only with a Bronze co-driver. IMSA membership and driver approval apply separately.