Hindman to Replace Hardwick in Wright Porsche After Accident

Photo: IMSA

Trent Hindman will replace Ryan Hardwick in the No. 16 Wright Motorsports Porsche 911 GT3 R for this weekend’s Rolex 24 at Daytona following a second accident for Hardwick in practice at Daytona International Speedway in the last five days.

Hindman, who is Silver-rated by the FIA, has been drafted into the GT Daytona class entry alongside Patrick Long, Klaus Bachler and Jan Heylen.

It comes after Hardwick suffered an accident in IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge practice on Wednesday afternoon, resulting in a concussion and overnight stay in the hospital.

The Pilot Challenge entry has been withdrawn from the remainder of the event and comes after Hardwick wrote-off the team’s primary GT3-spec Porsche in Saturday night practice at the Roar Before the Rolex 24.

“It’s unfortunate that I won’t be able to join the team for the big race,” said Hardwick. “I wish I was driving with them, but sadly that won’t be possible.

“When I first learned I wouldn’t be able to drive, Trent was immediately one of the first drivers I thought of to step in. I want the team to continue and our 1st Phorm car to be on track to compete in this event.

“I’ve followed Trent’s career for the last few years, and I think he’ll be a good fit. Trent is joining a really great team, and I wish them the best of luck this weekend. He’s in the best hands.”

Hindman, who is already competing in Friday’s Pilot Challenge season-opener, will get his first laps in Wright’s Porsche in Thursday’s opening practice session.

It will mark his second start in a GT3-spec Porsche after an outing in a previous-gen model in the 24H COTA in 2019.

“First and foremost, what’s most important is that Ryan is okay,” said Hindman.

“Filling in for the Rolex 24 under these circumstances is never ideal, but I am grateful to John, Ryan, and the Wright Motorsports team for trusting me with this opportunity.

“The No. 16 Porsche looks to be a strong contender for victory come Sunday, and I certainly look forward to doing everything I can to make it happen.”

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