BMW Team RLL is entering Mid-Ohio with high hopes after a disappointing outing at Long Beach. The race on the California coastline saw the pair of BMW M8 GTEs struggle for pace and finish the race at the bottom of the GT Le Mans order.

Mid-Ohio, though, is the home race for the outfit that is based out of Hilliard, Ohio (just over an hour from the track) and the team believes that the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course is better suited to the characteristics of their M8 GTE. And the car’s performance last year on the 2.258-mile circuit backs that up.

Last year’s race saw John Edwards put the #24 BMW M8 GTE on the pole, and Connor De Phillippi and Alexander Sims net the team a second place finish in the race. The pole last year for the team was just the second in IMSA competition for the M8 GTE after its first pole came at Sebring in 2018.

“After some disappointments, I think it’s safe to say everyone is extremely motivated to get a result at Mid-Ohio.” Said Tom Blomqvist, who is set to drive with De Phillippi in the #25 M8.

“This was one of my favourite tracks when I was a kid messing about on the simulator so I’m pumped to try it for real.

“It should suit our package more than previous races so I’m confident and extremely motivated to get my first podium of the year.”

The Rolex 24 at Daytona win earlier in the season has been the highlight of the year for the BMW programme.

The team currently sits second in the manufacturer standings. The German-marquee has just a one-point advantage over third-placed Ford, with everyone in the field chasing Porsche whose wins at Sebring and Long Beach have given them the early advantage.

“Mid-Ohio is one of the classic, technical road courses in North America and always brings out the best in teams and drivers,” said Bobby Rahal, BMW Team RLL team principal.

“Because it is our home track the entire team feels that little extra push from the folks around the track and we are looking to improve on our excellent race there last season.”

Photo courtesy of BMW Motorsport