Lexus announces its global 2018 motorsport plans

Lexus appreciates that nothing conveys the anticipation and excitement of driving as effectively as motorsport. More than simply providing an amazing experience, motorsport directly contributes to the development and technologies of future production models.

With that in mind, what fields of motorsport does Lexus compete in, and what important series has been added to the programme since last year? Please scroll down for an outline of Lexus’s recently announced motorsport programme for the remainder of 2018, as well as the teams and drivers that will be at the sharp end of these activities.

Germany: Nürburgring 24 Hours endurance race

This year marks the 12th consecutive year of participation in the 24 Hours Nürburgring, the world-renowned endurance race that Lexus regards as vital in the development of its road cars. The 2018 event takes place on 12-13 May.

Making its European motorsport debut in this race will be the Lexus LC above, which has been specially modified to comply with regulations. It also incorporates a number of advanced development technologies that will be used in future production cars. These include stiffening yet reducing the weight of the body, improved aerodynamics, power and fuel economy increases, and suspension refinements to enhance responsiveness.

Japan: Super GT (GT500 class)

Super GT is the most exciting and influential car-based race series in Japan. Following its championship-winning debut last year, Lexus Gazoo Racing will continue to campaign the Lexus LC 500 in 2018, offering direct support for six of the race teams while the remaining six teams will be supported via the TRD sports subsidiary of parent company Toyota.

Japan: Super GT (GT300 class)

In the GT300 class, Lexus is represented by three RC F GT3 models. Two of these are run by Japanese teams, while the other is prepared by a team from Thailand. All GT300 and GT500 class cars run on the track at the same time.

Global: Lexus GT3 customer motorsport

Through global sales and customer support of the Lexus RC F GT3, Lexus Gazoo Racing enables customers from around the world to enjoy competing in GT3 races and enhancing the image of Lexus in motorsport. In turn, Lexus also receives feedback from these privately-run teams to help develop its production vehicles.

Moving into 2018, the Lexus RC F GT3 will appear in five separate race series. This includes North America’s popular IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship and, for the first time this year, Europe’s Blancpain GT Series, widely regarded as the world’s premier sports car series.

Learn more: Lexus motorsport milestones