Crucial to Make Sprint Cup Debut at Long Beach

Photo: Jake Galstad/IMSA

Crucial Motorsports will make its IMSA WeatherTech Sprint Cup debut in next month’s GTD round at Long Beach, it has been confirmed.

As previously reported by Sportscar365, the Florida-based McLaren operation had been evaluating Long Beach, along with other Sprint Cup races to supplement its Michelin Endurance Cup effort this year.

Paul Holton will team up with Jon Miller in the team’s McLaren 720S GT3 for the 100-minute race.

“To say that I’m excited for my first Long Beach Grand Prix would be an understatement,” said Miller.

“From racing with Crucial Motorsports at Daytona and Sebring, which are my former home races, to Long Beach, my current home race, is so special and something that I did not expect was a possibility at the start of the year.

“I’m grateful for everything that has gone into making this opportunity a reality.

“I was Paul’s spotter in 2018 for his GT4 win with McLaren and I’ve coached other drivers to strong results here. I already have special memories at Long Beach and I’m looking forward to making more.”

Holton, a McLaren factory driver, makes his return to Sprint Cup competition after contesting two years with Compass Racing in 2019-20, also in the McLaren.

He holds previous Long Beach experience with a GT4 class win in 2018 in SRO America competition. 

“This event has always been incredible to be a part of and I cannot wait to take part in it with IMSA, Crucial Motorsports, and Jon. I think we are a great pairing from both a pace and driving style perspective,” said Holton.

“Long Beach is an incredible and challenging circuit and I can’t wait to get back out there.”

While not yet announced, the team is “actively pursuing” additional Sprint Cup rounds this year.

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