About

The IMSA GT3 Cup Challenge by Yokohama features semi-professional drivers racing head to head in the largest single-make series in North America. Powered by one of the world’s most successful race cars, the Porsche 911 GT3 Cup car, the multi-class structure of the series teaches drivers essential skills for an eventual career in the American Le Mans Series presented by Tequila Patrón. The 2012 IMSA GT3 Cup Challenge by Yokohama will kick off its seventh season of competition at the 60th Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring March 14- 17.

Developed for Porsche one-make Cups worldwide, the 2010 version of the Porsche 911 GT3 Cup car was based on the 911 GT3 RS. The power unit featured in the new 911 GT3 Cup car was largely identical to the production engine of the 911 GT3 RS with the same output of 450 bhp and the same maximum engine speed of 8,500 rpm.  The 2011 and 2012 versions maintain all these components, with upgrades to the suspension and interior.

In 2012, as in previous years, there will be two classes racing at the same time.  The Platinum Cup class features 2010 - 2012 Porsche 911 GT3 Cup cars, while the Gold Cup class will again be for Porsche 911 GT3 Cup cars from 2005 1/2 through 2009. 

In 2011, NGT Motorsport's Henrique Cisneros made good on his 2010 Gold Cup Championship by winning the 2011 Platinum Cup title, with four victories, 11 podium finishes and six pole positions in 15 races. In the Gold Cup class, 15-year-old Madison Snow became the youngest Porsche one-make Cup winner in history, earning six victories, 13 podium finishes and six pole positions.

The IMSA GT3 Cup Challenge by Yokohama will compete at eight different North American venues in 2012. All events will have two 45 minute races except Montreal, which will have one race.