Watkins Glen (NY), June 20, 2025
Brazilian driver Celso Neto (AMED / Dipromed / LS Interbank / SODI USA by Velocity Racing / Precision Racing LA) secured an excellent starting position for the fifth round of the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge, held at Watkins Glen International circuit in New York state. Brazilian claimed second place in the TCR category qualifying session, securing his position on the front row of the grid for Saturday's race (21st).
After free practice sessions, when teams were able to make final adjustments to their cars, Celso Neto took to the track on Friday (20th) determined to secure a strong starting position. The Precision Racing LA driver demonstrated all his talent behind the wheel of the #7 Audi RS3, posting a time of 1:55.927 and securing the second-fastest lap in qualifying.
With this result, Neto will have a privileged position on the front row to contest the two-hour race scheduled for Saturday. This achievement represents an important comeback for Celso Neto, who is looking to return to prominence in the championship after some more challenging rounds.
"After two not-so-good rounds, we're starting at Watkins Glen with a good result, with this front row position. We'll see with the team and Ryan what strategy we'll use for Saturday's race. God willing, we'll achieve a good result," declared Celso Neto after the qualifying session, showing optimism for the race.
The IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge is part of the International Motor Sports Association (IMSA) calendar, one of the most prestigious organizations in North American motorsports. Celso Neto has been making his mark in the TCR category, showing consistent and spectacular work in driving his Audi RS3, equipped with cutting-edge technology for the category's competitions.
Brazilian driver forms a partnership in the #7 car with experienced American Ryan Eversley, establishing a solid partnership within the Precision Racing LA team. The combination of Brazilian technique and local experience has proven to be an efficient formula for facing the championship's challenges.
The race start is scheduled for this Saturday at 11:45 AM (local time). The race will last two hours, testing not only the drivers' speed, but also the teams' strategy and equipment endurance on the demanding Watkins Glen layout.
Brazilian motorsport fans will have the opportunity to follow all the race excitement through the live broadcast on IMSA's official YouTube channel.
Text by Kako Marques / KMCom Assessoria
Follow Celso Neto on Instagram:
@Cneto_racing
Brazilian driver's duo was leading Michelin Pilot Challenge race when refueling failure cost them first place finish.
Dupla do brasileiro liderava prova da Michelin Pilot Challenge e falha no reabastecimento custa primeira colocação da etapa.
Piloto baiano conquista a segunda posição no treino classificatório para o grid da quinta etapa da IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge.
Brazilian driver returns to the track this week, aiming to score points in the TCR category in New York state.