Wickens Returns For IMSA Sprint Campaign
Canadian racer Robert Wickens is set to continue his inspiring return to top-level competition, confirming a full programme in the sprint rounds of the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship with DXDT Racing for the 2026 season.
The 37-year-old will once again take the wheel of the Chevrolet Corvette Z06 GT3.R, beginning his campaign at the iconic Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach. His schedule will mirror his 2025 effort, focusing on five sprint events within the highly competitive GTD class.
Wickens will be joined by Mason Filippi, a familiar ally from their successful stint together in the Michelin Pilot Challenge between 2022 and 2024. Their established rapport is expected to provide a strong foundation as they tackle a demanding calendar against some of the most experienced GT drivers in North America.
A Season of Continuity and Progress
Speaking about the programme, Wickens emphasised the importance of continuity—not only with DXDT Racing, but also with General Motors and long-time technical partner Bosch. The latter remains integral to his participation, providing the bespoke electronic braking system and hand controls that enable him to compete at the highest level following his life-altering injuries in 2018.
Despite the familiarity, Wickens acknowledged that the challenge remains significant. Having last driven the Corvette at Virginia International Raceway in August of the previous year, he admitted that reacclimatising to the car may take time. Nevertheless, confidence within the team is high, bolstered by a strong technical structure and proven working relationships.
2026 IMSA Sprint Programme
| Event | Circuit / Location | Class |
|---|---|---|
| Long Beach | Long Beach | GTD |
| Laguna Seca | WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca | GTD |
| Canadian Tire Motorsport Park | Canadian Tire Motorsport Park | GTD |
| Virginia International Raceway | Virginia International Raceway | GTD |
| Indianapolis Motor Speedway | Indianapolis Motor Speedway | GTD |
Building on 2025 Momentum
Wickens’ 2025 campaign marked a successful transition into GT3 machinery, yielding three top-10 finishes from five starts, including a season-best fourth place at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park. Those results demonstrated not only his adaptability but also his enduring competitiveness in elite motorsport.
A former champion in the Michelin Pilot Challenge—where he secured the TCR title in 2023—Wickens has steadily rebuilt his career, earning widespread respect across the paddock. His continued presence in IMSA serves as both a competitive asset and an inspirational narrative within the sport.
Looking ahead, Wickens is targeting further progress rather than immediate results. While acknowledging the intensity of the GTD field, he remains optimistic that consistency, teamwork, and technical refinement will yield improved performances throughout the season.
As the championship prepares to resume, Wickens’ return represents more than just another entry on the grid—it is a testament to resilience, innovation, and the enduring spirit of competition.
