The Drayson Racing Lola Judd Coupe. Photo credit: Rick Dole for Michelin North America

Drayson Racing

No. 8: Paul Drayson, Jonny Cocker, Emanuele Pirro

Each race has been a small step forward for Paul Drayson’s team with their Lola Judd Coupe closed-top, turbocharged prototype. They premiered the car at this race last year and are in a far better position with data acquisition and prototype experience 12 months later.

In the last few races, Jonny Cocker has emerged as a potential star of sports car racing. The 23-year-old Englishman is the only driver with more than one pole position this season. He also produced a sensational comeback at Road America to win his and the team’s first race with Drayson as co-driver. The team’s challenge for a P1 podium at Petit Le Mans is bolstered with third driver Emanuele Pirro, who nearly won his last ALMS start with the team at Utah in July. Together, the ebullient Italian and the two plucky Brits are among the fan favorites and a dark horse to podium overall.