Legacy Motor Club (LMC) is set to make its debut in the Extreme E championship, a world-renowned off-road racing series that utilizes spec silhouette electric SUVs. This move comes after the departure of several notable teams during the off-season, including Lewis Hamilton’s X44 team, Chip Ganassi Racing, and the Abt Cupra team. LMC’s presence in the championship has been described as “a huge coup” by championship manager Ali Russell. The team’s drivers for the Desert X Prix on February 17-18 will be Travis Pastrana and Gray Leadbetter.
Jimmie Johnson, a seven-time Cup Series champion, expressed his excitement about LMC’s entry into the Extreme E championship. He emphasized the significance of representing America in this unique and highly competitive series. Johnson stated, “We are committed to the challenge, and I’m thrilled to witness our Legacy Motor Club colors race on foreign soil for the first time while I’m in Daytona for the ‘Great American Race’.” He expressed confidence in Travis Pastrana and Gray Leadbetter, eagerly anticipating their achievements in the upcoming races.
A Rising Star Joins the Team
Gray Leadbetter, at the young age of 19, is set to make her debut in the Extreme E championship alongside Pastrana. Leadbetter began her motorsport career in the Championship Off-Road series in 2019 and went on to become the first woman to win a U.S. Pro Class Championship in the Championship Off-Road closed-course series, securing four victories in total. She further showcased her talent by becoming the first woman and youngest competitor to win a Sportsman SXS race in December 2020. Leadbetter’s impressive background and accomplishments make her a valuable addition to the team.
Expressing her excitement about joining LMC, Leadbetter shared that when she received a text from Travis Pastrana about the opportunity to race with Jimmie Johnson and Legacy MC, she couldn’t contain her thrill. While Leadbetter has never driven in the Extreme E championship, she is confident in her abilities and believes she will be in great company with her experienced teammates. Leadbetter’s drive and determination will undoubtedly contribute to the success of LMC in this new venture.
Counting on a Motorsports Legend
Travis Pastrana, a renowned motorsports legend, brings a wealth of experience to the team. With three motocross championships and multiple X Games gold medals under his belt, Pastrana has established himself as a versatile and highly accomplished athlete. He has even ventured into the world of NASCAR, participating in the Daytona 500 last year with 23XI Racing. His familiarity with electric vehicles and off-road events will be valuable assets as he embarks on this new adventure with LMC. Pastrana expressed his confidence in Jimmie Johnson and Legacy M.C., stating that joining the team was a no-brainer for him.
Looking ahead to the future of the Extreme E championship, Johnson highlighted the technical intrigue surrounding the transition to hydrogen power by 2025. This transition is closely watched by the entire motorsports community, and Johnson acknowledges its importance. As the championship evolves and adopts hydrogen technology, the innovative and forward-thinking approach of Extreme E will continue to push the boundaries of off-road racing.
With Legacy Motor Club’s entry into the Extreme E championship, the team is poised to make its mark on the international off-road racing scene. The addition of drivers Travis Pastrana and Gray Leadbetter signifies a blend of experience and emerging talent. LMC’s commitment to the challenge ahead, along with their representation of America in this global series, showcases their dedication to success. As the championship progresses and the use of hydrogen power becomes a reality, Extreme E continues to showcase the future of sustainable motorsports.
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