TGR StaffUnder the bright lights of Daytona International Speedway, McLaren and the Accelerating Performance team made a statement in their debut race, claiming a dramatic victory in the 2025 IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge. The four-hour race, held as a support event for the Daytona 24 Hours, saw the McLaren Artura GT4 continue its winning legacy with a thrilling performance that culminated in a last-lap pass for the lead.
The Accelerating Performance team, featuring drivers Moisey Uretsky and Michael Cooper, started fifth on the 43-car grid. Uretsky opened the race with a marathon stint, keeping the team in the top ten for over two hours before handing over to Cooper with 80 minutes remaining.
Cooper took over in eighth place and immediately set to work, maneuvering the Artura GT4 through the pack during an intense final hour of racing. The last laps were nothing short of spectacular, with Cooper using the Artura GT4’s precision and power to climb to third place. On the penultimate lap, Cooper executed a daring move exiting Turn 6, slipping past the leaders on Daytona’s iconic banking. Despite fierce attempts to retake the lead, Cooper crossed the line in first place, securing a landmark win for McLaren and Accelerating Performance.
44: Accelerating Performance, McLaren Artura GT4, GS: Moisey Uretsky, Michael Cooper
A Debut to Remember
“Unbelievable. I don’t have any words. My heart’s beating and I have no idea what’s happening! That was the longest stint I’ve ever done,” said Moisey Uretsky, who delivered a stellar opening performance. “I love McLaren, and it has been great working with them. The team really deserves this. It’s their third year, and they’ve worked so hard to make this happen.”
Michael Cooper, who sealed the victory in the closing laps, was equally enthusiastic. “That was a lot of fun. I drove the previous version of the McLaren, so this felt very familiar. It’s an amazing GT4 car, and all the guys did an incredible job. When I saw Jan [Heylen] starting to struggle with the back of the car in some of the slow corners, I knew where I wanted to get him. Turn 6 was our strong point, and that’s where I made the move.”
McLaren Artura GT4 A Proven Performer
Ian James, Director of Motorsport at McLaren Automotive, praised the team’s efforts and the Artura GT4’s capabilities. “The race was a really impressive display of the qualities of the Artura GT4, and I have to say a massive congratulations to Moisey, Michael, and the whole Accelerating Performance team. To go out and win in your first race with the car, and at a track as prestigious as Daytona, really is something special.”
Built on McLaren’s Carbon Lightweight Architecture (MCLA) and powered by a compact yet potent 120-degree V6 twin-turbo engine, the Artura GT4 combines endurance performance with cutting-edge technology derived from its road-going counterpart. Designed to be accessible for drivers of all abilities, the Artura GT4 has quickly established itself as a top contender in the GT4 category.
Looking ahead, the McLaren Artura GT4 Trophy Evo will make its U.S. debut in March at Sonoma, California, as part of the new McLaren Trophy, America championship. With Daytona setting the stage, McLaren is poised for another groundbreaking season in motorsport.
The Artura Road Car: Motorsport DNA on the Streets
The McLaren Artura road car shares its core DNA with the race-winning Artura GT4, offering a seamless blend of performance, technology, and innovation. Powered by the same 120-degree V6 twin-turbo engine paired with a hybrid powertrain, the Artura road car delivers exhilarating speed while maintaining everyday usability. Its Carbon Lightweight Architecture ensures a nimble and responsive driving experience, while cutting-edge driver aids and luxurious interiors make it as comfortable as it is thrilling. For enthusiasts seeking a supercar with race-bred credentials, the Artura is the ultimate choice.
Looking ahead, the McLaren Artura Trophy Evo will make its U.S. debut in March at Sonoma, California, as part of the new McLaren Trophy, America championship. With Daytona setting the stage, McLaren is poised for another groundbreaking season in motorsport.
Photos Courtesy of McLaren
