Graham Rahal, the 18-year-old rookie champ car driver for Newman/Haas/Lanigan Racing will take on a different challenge this weekend. He heads to the Road Atlanta circuit in Georgia to compete in the 10th running of the famous Petit Le Mans race, part of the American Le Mans Series (ALMS). Rahal rejoins Rahal Letterman Racing’s Porsche team, after making his debut earlier in the year at the opening round in Sebring, again he will partner with Tom Milner and Ralf Kelleners for an assault on the ALMS GT2 class victory.
Taking advantage of the six week break in his champ car schedule, this will be the first start in the Petit Le Mans for Graham Rahal, and the Rahal Letterman Racing Team. Rahal is currently fifth in the Champ Car World Series standings with two races left on the calendar and he lies second in the rookie of the year standings.
Rahal was competitive in his sports car debut back at the Mobil 12 hours of Sebring, although a first lap accident kept the team out of contention for the win. This time round Rahal will add to the experience level, as unlike most open wheel drivers in the US, he has a handful of Road Atlanta races under his belt after his time in Star Mazda and SCCA competition
Rahal commented; “I’ve raced at Road Atlanta three or four times, but not in anything like a GT car, I think the track provides a strong challenge for these cars because it’s pretty quick. I’m really looking forward to it. ”
The Petit Le Mans race is held on the Road Atlanta circuit, a 2.54-mile, 12-turn world class road course. This is the first season the RLR team have competed in the ALMS, and they currently lie fourth in the GT2 category.
“I am very pleased that Graham is able to join us for Petit Le Mans, ” father Bobby said. “I thought he did an excellent job for us at Sebring and I think he adds to the talent level of the organization. I’m excited for him, because I think he really enjoys sports car racing and we are looking forward to having him run with us. ”
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