Franco Returns to Full-Season Program With Conquest

Photo: Conquest Racing

Manny Franco will return to full-time IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship competition with Conquest Racing, which has committed to a fourth consecutive season in the GTD class.

The Eric Bachelart-led squad, which will be celebrating its 30th anniversary of competition next year, is set to return to its originally intended lineup from this season, with Franco again teaming up with Albert Costa for the full campaign and Lorenzo Patrese back for the Michelin Endurance Cup races.

Patrese filled in for Franco in the No. 34 Ferrari 296 GT3 Evo when the Wisconsin native elected to stand down from driving following the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach in April.

“I’m excited to return for a full season,” said Franco. “Conquest Racing has been instrumental in ushering me into the sport, and I still feel as though we have unfinished business in this championship.

“Having stepped away for several races in 2026, I’ve enjoyed watching the team re-develop over the year, and it really seems that all the ingredients are there to really push for results every weekend.”

Franco and Conquest claimed a class podium in their first GTD race together in the 2024 Rolex 24, followed by another top-three result at Watkins Glen International and breakthrough class win in the season-ending Motul Petit Le Mans.

The following season brought three additional podiums, along with a third place result last year at Long Beach before his sabbatical from racing.

“Having Manny back is something we’re all very excited about,” said Bachelart.

“From his debut with us it was clear that he had a lot of talent, and it is very rewarding to see him continue with us into our seventh year together.

“The level of competition in IMSA right now is as high as it’s ever been, and if we’re going to target the objectives we all have, we need to execute on every detail to maximize the program.”

Costa added: “After four years together, this is more than just a team to me—it’s family.

“After the bad luck we experienced last season, I’m grateful and excited to have another opportunity to show what we’re capable of.

“I truly believe this is the best group of mechanics and engineers I’ve ever worked with in my career.

“I’m also really excited to be sharing the car with Manny again next season. I’ve always loved racing alongside him and we’ve already shared some incredible moments together.

“It’s time to show everyone what we’re capable of.”

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