Wiebelhaus Replaces Cicero in MMR Mustang GT4

Photo: Gruppe C Photography/HRT

Finn Wiebelhaus will replace will replace Nate Cicero in McCumbee McAleer Racing’s Ford Mustang GT4 for the remainder of the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge season, beginning with this weekend’s round at Virginia International Raceway.

The 20-year-old German, who currently leads the rookie-of-the-year honors in DTM, gave Ford its first-ever pole in the highly competitive German GT3-based sprint series earlier this year, while also claiming consecutive podium finishes in the Mustang GT3 EVO.

Wiebelhaus will team up with fellow Ford Racing driver development team member and reigning Mustang Challenge North America champion Robert Noaker in the GS points-leading No. 13 Mustang GT4.

“I am excited to join McCumbee McAleer Racing and make my IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge debut,” said Wibelhaus.

“Transitioning to the American circuits is a thrilling new challenge, and to do it with a championship-leading team in the Ford Mustang GT4 is a massive opportunity.

“I’ve been watching the team’s success closely, and I am ready to get to work with Robert and the entire MMR crew to help secure the GS title. I can’t wait for the green flag at VIR.”

Team co-owner Chad McCumbee added: “We are happy to welcome a talent like Finn to the MMR family for the final stretch of the season.

“He has already proven himself as a top-tier competitor in Europe, and his experience within the Ford Racing ecosystem makes him a perfect fit for our program.

“The team has done an incredible job putting the No. 13 Mustang at the top of the GS class standings, and by adding Finn’s speed and racecraft, we are putting our best foot forward to bring home the championship.”

The development comes amid Cicero’s immediate departure from driving, which was first announced by the 21-year-old New York native on social media two weeks ago.

The McCumbee and Stevan McAleer-owned operation then issued the following statement: “We are disappointed to announce that our relationship with Nate Cicero has come to an end.

“Effective immediately, Nate is no longer associated with MMR in any capacity. We will have no further comment on the topic.”

Ford Racing, meanwhile, has confirmed that Cicero is also no longer a member of its junior team.

“Ford Racing holds every member of our program to a high standard of conduct, on and off the track,” a statement from the manufacturer read.

“Effective immediately, Nate Cicero is no longer part of the Driver Development program.”

Noaker will head into the two-hour race with a 100-point lead over Dillon Machavern and Luca Mars of Turner Motorsport and AutoTechnic Racing’s Austin Krainz and Stevan McAleer, who are in a two-way tie for second place in points.

Source: Sports Car 365