Kiko Porto Debuts with Pole Position at Daytona in the Opening Round of the VP Racing Sportscar Challenge

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Daytona (FL), January 18, 2025


The 2025 season opener of the VP Racing Sportscar Challenge takes place this weekend at the iconic Daytona International Speedway in Florida, USA. Brazilian driver Kiko Porto (Banco Daycoval / MC Games / Team: Rafa Racing) is delivering a standout performance in his debut. Competing in the GSX category behind the #8 Toyota GR Supra GT4 EVO2, Kiko has shone since the initial practice sessions and will start the first race from the pole position.

After dominating both free practice sessions on Friday (17th), Kiko returned to the track on Saturday (18th) determined to solidify his strong form during qualifying. He did not disappoint: with a lap time of 1:55.064, the Pernambuco native secured pole position with an impressive margin of 1.495 seconds over the second-fastest driver, even under mixed track conditions. This outstanding performance highlights the exceptional teamwork of Rafa Racing.

"First qualifying of the VP Challenge and we’re in pole position. I’m thrilled! The team gave me an incredible car. The track was tricky—part wet, part dry—using slick tires, so it was quite a challenge, but thankfully everything went perfectly. I owe much gratitude to my team, physical trainers, family, and everyone involved. There are so many people to thank that I’m at a loss for words. Now we need to focus on the race. This is just the beginning; we need to finish the job. Let’s go for it!" commented Kiko Porto.

The VP Racing Sportscar Challenge features 35 cars across the GSX, P3, and GTDX categories. In Race 1, scheduled for Saturday at 2:00 PM local time (4:00 PM Brasília time), Kiko will not only aim for victory but also strive for the fastest lap, which would secure him pole position for Race 2. The action continues on Sunday (19th) with the final race starting at 1:20 PM in Florida (3:20 PM in Brasília).

Text by Kako Marques / KMCom Press Office

Kiko Porto on Instagram:
@kikoporto_12

Kiko Porto on YouTube:
@KikoPorto12

Kiko Porto’s Official Website:
www.kikoporto.com.br