TDS Racing: Accelerating Towards a Dominant IMSA Future
The Grand Return: TDS Racing's Expanded LMP2 Campaign
For the first time in three years, TDS Racing, under the astute leadership of Xavier Combet, is poised to make a significant impact on the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship. The French team is set to campaign two potent Oreca 07 Gibson prototypes, illustrating their determination to conquer the top echelons of the LMP2 class.
Driver Lineup: A Blend of Experience and Emerging Talent
The #11 entry will see the familiar and highly effective pairing of Tobi Lutke and Mathias Beche. Meanwhile, Stephen Thomas makes a welcome return to the team's IMSA efforts after a successful period in the European Le Mans Series (ELMS), where he will co-pilot the #29 car alongside Scott Huffaker. This strategic driver selection ensures a strong foundation of experience and youthful dynamism.
Reinforcing the Ranks: Endurance Cup Specialists Join the Team
To further enhance their competitiveness in the grueling Michelin Endurance Cup rounds, TDS Racing has brought in additional talent. Sami Meguetounif is set to make his IMSA debut in the #11 car, bringing fresh energy and skill. Complementing this, seasoned endurance racer David Heinemeier Hansson will join the #29 car, providing invaluable experience for the longer format races.
Proven Synergy: The Advantage of Pre-Existing Partnerships
The chosen driver combinations are not arbitrary; they capitalize on pre-existing chemistry and proven success. Thomas, Meguetounif, and Huffaker recently demonstrated their formidable teamwork in the ELMS LMP2 Pro/Am class, where they were strong title contenders and secured a class victory at Silverstone. This established rapport is expected to translate into immediate on-track performance.
A Legacy of Success and Future Ambitions
TDS Racing has cemented its reputation as a consistent and formidable presence in the racing paddock since becoming a full-season IMSA entrant in 2023. The team recently celebrated its 40th IMSA start at the Motul Petit Le Mans. Stephen Thomas, alongside former teammates Mikkel Jensen and Hunter McElrea, achieved back-to-back Michelin Endurance Cup titles in 2024 and 2025 with consecutive victories at Indianapolis Motor Speedway and Petit Le Mans. This latest announcement positions TDS Racing as the inaugural confirmed LMP2 entry for the upcoming season, underscoring their unwavering commitment to success.
Leadership's Vision: Driving Forward with Passion and Purpose
Xavier Combet, the team's leader, expressed profound enthusiasm for the upcoming season: “The 2027 season marks a thrilling new chapter for TDS Racing. Our expansion to a two-car program in IMSA is a testament to both our aspirations and our enduring dedication to the championship.” He further emphasized, “We are honored to continue our journey with Tobi, David, and Mathias, while enthusiastically welcoming Steven back alongside Scott, and introducing Sami for his IMSA debut. We have forged a robust foundation over recent seasons, and our objective remains unequivocal: to relentlessly push boundaries, contend at the forefront, and vie for victories and championship accolades.”