Celso Neto Secures Top 5 Finish at IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge in Virginia

Alton (VA), August 25, 2025

On his birthday weekend, driver Celso Neto (AMED / Dipromed / LS Interbank / SODI USA by Velocity Racing / Precision Racing LA) once again demonstrated his competitiveness in the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge during the round held at VIRginia International Raceway in Alton, Virginia. The Brazilian, who had already competed at the American circuit during the 2023 and 2024 seasons, came close to securing a podium finish this weekend in the TCR category.

Before the qualifying session, during Friday's (22nd) free practice sessions on his birthday, Celso Neto shared his first impressions of the track. "A great birthday today, both on and off track. In free practice 1 and 2, we finished 4th and 3rd. We're only one tenth off the leader, so we're going all out for qualifying and the race."

In qualifying, Celso Neto set a time that placed him in fifth position on the third row of the starting grid. His performance in the timed session already indicated the Brazilian's competitive potential for the main race, establishing a solid foundation for the battle ahead.

Behind the wheel of the #7 Audi RS3 from Precision Racing LA, Celso executed an exemplary start that quickly moved him up to the front positions. Within just a few laps, the Brazilian driver had already climbed to third place, demonstrating not only speed but also strategy and precision in his overtaking maneuvers.

The provisional podium position was consistently maintained by the Brazilian throughout his entire driving stint. Celso managed the pressure from competitors and track conditions very well, handing over the Audi RS3 to American Ryan Eversley while keeping the team in direct contention for the podium. The transition was executed according to strategic planning, leaving the car in position to fight for third place until the finish.

Eversley took over the wheel determined to maintain the position secured by the Brazilian, but faced technical difficulties that compromised the final performance. Excessive tire wear became a limiting factor, especially in the race's closing laps, when grip became compromised.

"It was a Top 5 and good points for the championship. Unfortunately, after the pit stop, we suffered from excessive tire wear and Ryan couldn't hold onto the podium in the final two laps. Either way, it was a very competitive and exciting race. It's a shame we couldn't get a trophy, but we'll keep pushing in the upcoming rounds," analyzed Celso Neto after the race.

Despite the fifth-place finish, the duo scored important points for the overall championship standings. Celso Neto's performance reinforces his consistency in the category and keeps expectations alive for the remaining rounds of the season.

The Brazilian driver returns to action between September 19-21 to compete in the ninth round of the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge. The next challenge will be at the legendary Indianapolis Motor Speedway in Indianapolis, where Celso Neto will seek to capture the podium that slipped away in Virginia.


Text by Kako Marques / KMCom Assessoria

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