Esses Racing to Run Mercedes-AMG GT3 Evo With Hardeman

Photo: Esses Racing

Esses Racing will expand into Fanatec GT World Challenge America powered by AWS competition this year with a Mercedes-AMG GT3 Evo entry confirmed for Will Hardeman as its first driver.

The Texas-based team, known for its success in Blue Marble Radical Cup North America, has entered into a new partnership with Mercedes-Benz of Austin to field the GT3 car in SRO America competition for a partial season effort.

“Esses Racing has always had the goal of competing in the Fanatec GT World Challenge America powered by AWS Championship,” said Esses Racing general manager and partner Dave O’Neill.

“We are very excited to partner with Mercedes-Benz of Austin with Will Hardeman. We have been testing quite a bit at our home track, Circuit of The Americas, and we’re looking to showcase Esses Racing on an international stage against the veteran teams in the championship.”

Hardeman, who is the managing partner of Mercedes-Benz of Austin, added: “I’m stoked to return to SRO in the GT3 class after a hiatus from professional racing. I couldn’t be more pleased with the Mercedes GT3 and the Esses outfit.

“Dave O’Neill and the Esses team bring a breath of experience to the table ranging from their time in Formula 1 to American GT racing so I have confidence they can get the Mercedes GT3 and myself into the hunt in order to show well in SRO.”

John Dagys

John Dagys is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Sportscar365. Dagys spent eight years as a motorsports correspondent for FOXSports.com and SPEED Channel and has contributed to numerous other motorsports publications worldwide. Contact John