DEForce Racing Set for TCR Debut with CUPRA

Photo: Ernesto Martinez Falcone/DEForce Racing

Open-wheel outfit DEForce Racing will expand into IMSA competition next year, entering the Michelin Pilot Challenge TCR class with a single CUPRA Leon VZ TCR.

The move marks the team’s first foray into sports car racing after establishing itself in North American open-wheel competition.

Based in Angleton, Tex., DEForce currently fields entries in three series under the USF Pro Championships umbrella. The team also confirmed it will continue its open-wheel programs alongside the newly announced TCR effort.

“A new era begins,” the team said in an Instagram post announcing the move. “We’re excited to announce that DEForce Racing is expanding into GT racing, opening new doors and creating more opportunities for our drivers.”

DEForce’s open-wheel program has helped develop several drivers who have gone on to achieve success in various disciplines, including 2024 Le Mans 24 Hours class winners Bijoy Garg and Nolan Siegel, the latter of whom competes in the NTT IndyCar Series.

Other drivers to have progressed through the DEForce ranks include Kiko Porto, who competes in Pilot Challenge with RAFA Racing, and Brady Golan, a VP Racing SportsCar Challenge LMP3 competitor with Toney Driver Development.

DEForce joins Victor Gonzalez Racing Team and Stallion Motorsports among the teams planning to field CUPRAs in Pilot Challenge next season.

Eight CUPRAs are provisionally expected to comprise the 2027 grid, with VGRT targeting up to three entries and Stallion planning a four-car effort.

Gou Racing’s plans for next season remain unclear. The team debuted CUPRA machinery in IMSA competition in 2025 and fielded two cars at Daytona this year.

DEForce’s driver lineup for its TCR entry has yet to be announced.

Source: Sports Car 365