Iron Dames Porsche Withdrawn From Watkins Glen

Iron Dames will sit out this weekend’s Sahlen’s Six Hours of the Glen as a result of the injury Michelle Gatting sustained prior to the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the team has confirmed.

The No. 83 Porsche 911 GT3 R had initially appeared on the 56-car entry list released for the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship round at Watkins Glen, which at the time only showed Sarah Bovy and Rahel Frey as confirmed drivers.

However, on Tuesday the team confirmed its withdrawal from the Michelin Endurance Cup fixture, citing the injury Gatting sustained at the test day prior to the 24 Hours of Le Mans, where she suffered foot fractures in an accident during pit stop practice.

She was replaced for the French endurance classic by Bovy.

“With heavy hearts, we announce that the Iron Dames have been forced to withdraw from this weekend’s IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship round at Watkins Glen,” a team statement read.

“This difficult decision comes as a result of the injury Michelle Gatting sustained in the lead-up to the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

“Michelle’s health and recovery are our top priorities at this moment in time.

“This is a hard moment for our team, and especially painful knowing how much we were looking forward to racing in front of our incredibly dedicated American fans.

“We’re deeply grateful for your continued support through every high and low. We remain determined and resilient. We’ll be back soon, stronger than ever, together.

The withdrawal brings the grid for Sunday’s six-hour race down to 55 cars.