Atlanta, Georgia, October 14, 2025
News Summary
Ryan Hardwick, along with teammates Richard Lietz and Riccardo Pera, made history by winning the LMGT3 class at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. This victory also positioned Hardwick as the first driver from Atlanta to complete the motorsport Triple Crown. Driving the No. 92 Porsche 911 GT3 R LMGT3, Hardwick showcased remarkable endurance, driving for nearly eight hours. This win adds to his accolades in endurance racing, reflecting his journey from dirt bikes to top-tier motorsport.
Atlanta, Georgia
Ryan Hardwick achieved a historic victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, winning the LMGT3 class along with teammates Richard Lietz and Riccardo Pera during the prestigious endurance race in June 2023. This win marks a significant milestone in Hardwick’s racing career, making him the first driver from Atlanta to complete the motorsport Triple Crown, a feat achieved by only 12 drivers in history.
Racing for the Manthey 1st Phorm team, Hardwick drove the No. 92 Porsche 911 GT3 R LMGT3 for approximately eight hours throughout the 24-hour event. The Manthey 1st Phorm Porsche led for most of the latter half of the race, demonstrating a strong performance that culminated in their class victory. By the end of the grueling competition, Hardwick had been awake for nearly 30 hours.
This victory adds to Hardwick’s previous accomplishments, including team victories at the 12 Hours of Sebring and the Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona. As of 2023, he has completed the motorsport Triple Crown, having won all three major endurance races, enhancing his reputation in the motorsport community.
Background on Ryan Hardwick
Hardwick began his motorsport journey at the young age of seven, initially competing in dirt bike races and later transitioning to jet skis, where he won amateur and world championships. However, he didn’t make the shift to car racing until he was 35 years old, showing that perseverance and determination play a crucial role in his success. Hardwick is also the co-founder of Mountain Motorsports, which he established with childhood friend Justin Price in 1999 as a single-line Honda dealership. Over the years, Mountain Motorsports has evolved into one of the largest powersports retailers in the U.S., boasting over a dozen dealerships across the Southeast.
His racing efforts were previously self-funded until he gained sponsorships through the success of Mountain Motorsports. Presently, Hardwick and his team are leading in the FIA Endurance Trophy for the LMGT3 standings, and he aims to achieve a world championship title in his racing career.
Personal Life and Philosophy
At 44 years old, Hardwick remains committed to balancing his racing career with family life. He actively participates in his children’s sports activities and coaches his son’s flag football team. He credits his wife for keeping the family grounded amid the demands of his racing pursuits. Hardwick emphasizes the importance of experiences and adventures with family, a core philosophy reflected in Mountain Motorsports’ product offerings.
Conclusion
Ryan Hardwick’s remarkable journey from dirt bikes to a historic win at the 24 Hours of Le Mans showcases his unwavering dedication and passion for racing and business. This latest victory not only adds to his impressive resume but also puts him on track for future achievements in the world of motorsports.
FAQs
Who won the LMGT3 class at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2023?
Ryan Hardwick was part of the winning team in the LMGT3 class of the 24 Hours of Le Mans in June 2023.
Which team did Ryan Hardwick race for?
Hardwick raced for the Manthey 1st Phorm team.
How long did Ryan Hardwick drive during the race?
He spent nearly eight hours driving the No. 92 Porsche 911 GT3 R LMGT3 during the race.
What is significant about Ryan Hardwick’s victory?
This victory marked a significant achievement for Hardwick, who began racing at the age of seven on dirt bikes, later transitioning to jet skis, and then cars.
What previous wins does Ryan Hardwick have?
Hardwick has achieved previous team victories at the 12 Hours of Sebring and the Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona.
What is the motorsport Triple Crown?
As of 2023, Ryan Hardwick had completed the motorsport Triple Crown, having won the 24 Hours of Le Mans, Rolex 24 at Daytona, and 12 Hours of Sebring.
How is Ryan Hardwick involved in his children’s sports activities?
He is involved in his children’s sports activities, coaching his son’s flag football team while simultaneously pursuing his racing career.
Key Features of Ryan Hardwick’s Achievements
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Class Win | LMGT3 at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in June 2023 |
| Teammates | Richard Lietz, Riccardo Pera |
| Total Driving Time | Approximately eight hours |
| Previous Victories | 12 Hours of Sebring, Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona |
| Ages Started Racing | Seven years old on dirt bikes, transitioned to cars at age 35 |
| Business | Co-founder of Mountain Motorsports |
| Other Achievements | Leading FIA Endurance Trophy for LMGT3 standings |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Fox 5 Atlanta: Atlanta Business Owner Brings Home Le Mans Win
- Wikipedia: Ryan Hardwick
- Buckhead: Buckhead Executive Just Conquered the Super Bowl of Endurance Car Racing
- Google Search: 24 Hours of Le Mans
- Racer: Triumph at Le Mans – An Enduring Milestone for Hardwick
- Google Scholar: Le Mans 2023
- Sportscar365: Manthey and Lietz Take Back-to-Back LMGT3 Class Wins
- Encyclopedia Britannica: 24 Hours of Le Mans
- Autoweek: Americans Ben Keating and Ryan Hardwick at WEC LMGT3
- Google News: Ryan Hardwick
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
