Max Opalski Racing Launches Mustang Challenge Effort

Photo: Max Opalski Racing

Max Opalski Racing has launched a Mustang Challenge effort, with the 18-year-old Mazda MX-5 Cup graduate the first confirmed driver.

The Mooresville, N.C.-based operation announced Thursday its effort in the new-for-2024 IMSA-sanctioned series, featuring the Ford Mustang Dark Horse R, which kicks off at Mid-Ohio in June.

“I’m looking forward to the new season in general,” Opalski said. “Everything is going to be a little bit different.

“I’m excited to stay in IMSA with some familiar faces, but I’m excited to drive a new car with a lot more horsepower in this Mustang Dark Horse R.

“It’s got a little bit different driving style and I feel like I’m going to be very competitive this year.”

While adding team owner to his list of titles, Opalski is believed to be the youngest team owner in the IMSA paddock.

“We’re in the middle of building a team,” Opalski said. “In the past, I’ve always been a part of a team, a driver for a team. You kind of just show up and everything is ready. Everything is there. Everything looks familiar.

“Now that we’re starting a team, you really notice all the things that don’t get done.

“If there’s a banner, we have to get that somehow. Someone has to drive the truck to the track, and who does that? Before as a driver, you always think of yourself mostly.

“You have to think about everything and everyone. There’s a lot more on your plate, obviously, but it’s good because you know everything and how everything is running.”

Max Opalski Racing was one of the first to commit to series, with Opalski set to pilot chassis number four, highlighting his early commitment to the championship.

Joining Opalski on the business side is longtime racer and driver coach Jim Daniels.

Daniels has more than 30 years of experience in motorsports as a car builder, team manager and series official in addition to his driving and coaching experience.

Daniels will continue to coach Opalski and other Max Opalski Racing drivers in addition to serving as team manager.

“I’m really enjoying the process of working with Max and the Opalskis to help him learn not just about driving, but the business of racing,” Daniels said.

“We’ve worked together for the past few years to get quicker on the track, and he’s a very talented driver. This is full circle in some ways for me.

“In 2010 during the original Ford Mustang Challenge series, we won the Mid-Ohio round with 18-year-old Ben Crossland driving.

“Now we’re back in the same place to open this season with another 18-year-old talented driver. We plan to have some teammates with him, and I’m looking forward to this season and everything that’s involved with it.”

A grid of up to 30 cars are expected for the Mustang Challenge season.

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