SONOMA, Calif., (April 1, 2026) – Flying Lizard Motorsports opened its GT4 America, GT America and McLaren Trophy America seasons at Sonoma Raceway this weekend with a strong and well-rounded performance across all three programs, showcasing both competitive pace and continued progression throughout the field. From a hard-fought podium finish in GT4 America to consistent, composed drives in GT America and a promising debut effort in McLaren Trophy America, the Lizards demonstrated resilience and racecraft in a highly competitive season opener.
“It was a strong start to the 2026 racing season,” said Program Manager Darren Law. “We secured podium finishes, demonstrated good pace, and concluded the weekend with all cars intact. Just as importantly, we gained valuable insights for both our drivers and engineering team. We’re looking forward to the next event and building on this momentum.”
GT4 America
Due to an incident during qualifying, Zach Lumsden had to start the No. 413 BMW ninth in class and 31st overall. Lumsden had a strong opening stint, climbing two positions before a full-course caution was called on lap one for debris. He restarted from sixth with 41 minutes remaining and capitalized on clean air as the pit window approached. Staying out longer than much of the field, Lumsden cycled to the front before making his mandatory stop from second place with 27 minutes to go.
Kris Wilson took over and rejoined in fourth, quickly moving up to third as the class-leading No. 37 Mercedes pitted. With 17 minutes remaining, Wilson began closing in on second place before another caution bunched up the field, setting up a 10-minute sprint to the finish. He crossed the line in second, but a post-race penalty ultimately relegated the pair to seventh in class.
Undeterred, the duo returned on Saturday determined to rebound. Wilson’s fastest lap in race one secured a front-row starting position, and he maintained a clean, controlled opening stint. Cycling into the lead during pit stops, Wilson handed the car over to Lumsden, who rejoined in second place.
Lumsden fought hard in a tightly contested field, engaging in a battle with the No. 21 BMW before settling into third. A late-race caution locked-in the order, securing the duo a well-earned podium finish and valuable championship points.
GT America
Craig Lumsden and the No. 610 BMW started race one from pole position in the Am class and 15th overall. Navigating early-race incidents, Lumsden steadily worked his way forward, breaking into the overall top ten in the closing stages. He ultimately crossed the line tenth overall while maintaining his position at the front of the Am field.
In race two, Lumsden once again started from the class lead and continued to show consistent pace throughout the field. Avoiding early trouble, he quickly gained ground and improved his lap times from race one, demonstrating continued progression over the weekend. Running competitively among more experienced drivers, he maintained a clean and composed drive to bring the car home with another strong finish in class.
McLaren Trophy
Philip Ploskas and Johnny O’Connell made their McLaren Trophy America debut with a steady and composed performance across both races. Ploskas started race one sixth in the Am class and 11th overall, holding position through the opening stint while managing traffic. Staying out longer during the pit cycle allowed him to move up the order before handing the car over to O’Connell from fifth place. O’Connell rejoined in sixth, where the pair ultimately finished. Ploskas also secured a third-place finish in the Papaya Cup class.
In race two, O’Connell started third in class and quickly advanced to second after the start, showing strong race awareness as battles unfolded ahead. After maintaining position through his stint, he handed the car over to Ploskas, who rejoined in third. Facing increased pressure in the closing laps, Ploskas continued to gain valuable experience in the competitive field, ultimately finishing sixth overall and securing second in the Papaya Cup class.
The Lizards next race at Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas, with GT4 America and GT America. McLaren Trophy America will resume May 1-3 at the Maimi International Autodrome.
About Flying Lizard Motorsports
Flying Lizard Motorsports is a premier motorsport team known for its unwavering commitment to excellence and success on the racing circuit. With a rich history spanning over two decades, Flying Lizard Motorsports has earned a formidable reputation as a powerhouse in the world of motorsports, boasting 24 championship titles and a legacy of podium finishes across North America and at the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans. Fueled by passion, expertise, and a relentless drive for perfection, the team continues to push boundaries and set new standards of performance in every competition it enters. Through strategic partnerships and a dedicated team of professionals, Flying Lizard Motorsports remains at the forefront of motorsport innovation, delivering thrilling racing experiences and unforgettable moments for fans worldwide.
Apex Motor Club
Apex Motor Club is Arizona’s premier motorsports club located just 35 miles southwest of Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport and the only private motorsports club located within a major metropolitan area. APEX is the ultimate country club for automotive enthusiasts where car culture, racing and country club lifestyles converge. Enjoy an hour of track time in your latest acquisition, drive off track, into your privately-owned garage and join like- minded enthusiasts in the clubhouse for food, beverages, and activities.
APEX Motor Club features only the best in racing technology. The APEX phase one track is a 2.27-mile circuit with an additional 2.15-mile circuit in phase 2, beginning construction in 2023. APEX is paved using the latest techniques and premium materials, creating the smoothest and most durable racing surface, rarely found on most race tracks.
Furthermore, APEX incorporated extensive run off and installed an LED flag-lighting system to offer members a premium and safe racing atmosphere.
APEX has something for everyone from world-class racing circuits to private collection tours, as well as a clubhouse with amenities including a swimming pool, fitness center, restaurant and more. The APEX experience offers everything from the APEX Academy, which not only teaches members their new track, but provides the fundamentals in performance driving techniques, to private one-on-one coaching with industry experts and racing professionals. In addition, APEX features on-site fueling and offers concierge-level service for preparing your vehicle prior to as well as during lapping and racing sessions. The APEX off-track experience is just as valuable! APEX members enjoy special invitations to a variety of unique experiences throughout the valley and country all year long.
Website: www.apexmotorclub.com.
