JTR Enters Mercedes-AMG GT4 for Mars, Atwater

Photo: JTR

JTR Motorsports Engineering will field a Mercedes-AMG GT4 for Luca Mars and Peter Atwater in a partial season of Pirelli GT4 America, beginning with next weekend’s round at Sonoma Raceway.

The Indiana-based team, which also competes in IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge, confirmed its new effort on Wednesday, which will be headed up by team principal Jared Thomas, who competed against both Mars and Atwater as drivers in Mazda MX-5 Cup series competition.

“I’m excited to have Luca and Peter running together in the Mercedes-AMG GT4,” said Thomas.

“Although this is a new SRO program for JTR, it is not a new car to us as we compete in IMSA with one as well.

“We also have great chemistry between the team and the drivers as we have competed together in other series over the past couple years in addition to racing against one another.

“Everything is lining up for a great start to the season and I look forward to getting it kicked off at Sonoma.”

Mars and Atwater first raced together in MX-5 Cup as teammates in 2021. The drivers became friends quickly and continued to race and work together in one off efforts over the last few seasons.

The entry will compete for Pro-Am class honors in the series.

“I’m looking forward to driving with Peter for the first time in SRO and getting to know the Mercedes-AMG GT4,” said Mars, who had several standout drives in Pilot Challenge last year.

“I haven’t driven Sonoma before so that’s a new challenge for me but I’m looking forward to going for the win.”

Atwater added: “Luca Mars is a very talented driver and brings tons of GT4 experience to the team, plus he’s one of the most competitive young talents in any field.

“What’s not to like about this effort? I can’t wait for Sonoma.”

While set to contest the GT4 America rounds at Sonoma, Virginia International Raceway, Road America and Sebring International Raceway, additional events could be added to the calendar according to a team statement.

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