Gradient, NV Autosport Field Joint Le Mans Invitational Effort

Gradient Racing and NV Autosport will field a joint entry in next weekend’s Mustang Challenge Le Mans Invitational, entering a pair of cars for Drew Neubauer and Stephen Vajda.

Neubauer and Vajda, both regular competitors in the Mustang Challenge’s Dark Horse Legends class, will each drive a Ford Mustang Dark Horse R in the pair of exhibition races at the Circuit de la Sarthe, part of the support bill for the 93rd running of the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

“This is an iconic moment for our team, powered by passion and partnership,” said Neubauer.

“To compete at Le Mans, where Ford’s racing legend was born, is truly a dream come true. I’m incredibly grateful to my wife and family for supporting this bucket list opportunity.

“I’ve been training hard in the gym, working with Ford Performance on the simulator, and I’m beyond excited to hear that 5.0L Coyote engine roar down the Mulsanne Straight. I know my Pops will be smiling down from above.”

Vajda, for his part, picked up his first class podium of the season and the second of his career when he finished third in the Dark Horse Legends class at Laguna Seca last month.

“It is an honor to be part of such a monumental event,” added Vajda.

“Le Mans is the pinnacle of endurance racing, and the opportunity to race under the Ford Mustang banner is one we will never forget.

“I’ve been preparing through the Ford Performance simulator program, which helped us get familiar with the track.

“Every corner has character, but I’m especially looking forward to the Mulsanne Straight. Hearing the Mustang’s V8 thunder down that stretch will be surreal.

“It is the kind of experience you dream about, and now we get to live it.”