CSM Switches to Aston Martin for Rest of GS Season

Photo: CSM

Czabok-Simpson Motorsport has made the switch from Porsche to Aston Martin GT4 machinery for the remainder of the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge season, while adding a second GS class entry in the process.

The Indianapolis-based team, which has long been affiliated with running Porsches, will field two Aston Martin Vantage GT4 Evos beginning with next weekend’s round at Virginia International Raceway.

While Gordon Scully and Morgan Burkhard will remain together in the No. 2 entry, Ayrton Houk as Ismaeel Ellahi will team up in the No. 3 Aston Martin for a three-race Pilot Challenge program.

The shift to the British manufacturer is being billed as a “strategic move” according to a team statement, in order to get a jump start on the 2027 season.

Sportscar365 understands CSM acquired one of Rebel Rock Racing’s Astons that it previously ran in the series.

“Moving both cars to the Aston Martin now is an important step in our preparation for 2027,” said team co-owner Stephen Simpson.

“It gives our engineers and drivers three race weekends to build a meaningful base of knowledge in Michelin Pilot Challenge conditions.

“Ayrton has already tested with us several times and has consistently impressed the team with his pace, feedback and approach.

“Ismaeel’s development in such a short period has been exceptional, and his CTMP victory showed that he is ready for this next challenge.

“Gordon and Morgan give us the experience and continuity we need, so we believe these lineups create a very strong foundation for the rest of this season and for 2027.”

Houk, 23, is additionally confirmed to also contest the Pirelli GT4 America season-ending rounds at Indianapolis Motor Speedway with CSM, with his co-driver yet to be announced.

“The testing I have done with CSM gave me a real appreciation for how the team works and how committed everyone is to performance,” he said.

“To now join the Michelin Pilot Challenge program for VIR, Indianapolis and Road Atlanta is a huge opportunity.

“I am excited to share the No. 3 with Ismaeel, learn the Aston Martin quickly and contribute to the team’s preparation for 2027.

“Adding the GT4 America finale at my home track in Indianapolis makes this four-race program even more special.”

Ellahi, a 19-year-old American-Pakistani driver has been competing in VP Racing SportsCar Challenge competition, where he scored GSX class honors at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park in CSM’s first outing with the Aston Martin.

“Two years ago, I was sim racing in my basement, and after only eight car races I am now preparing to make my Michelin Pilot Challenge debut,” he said.

“Winning at CTMP was an unforgettable moment, but it also made me even more motivated for this next step.

“I am grateful to CSM, my family, my partners and everyone who has helped me progress so quickly.

“I am especially proud to represent my Pakistani heritage at this level, and I hope this opportunity shows other young drivers that there can be a path into professional motorsport even if they start in a simulator.”

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