Sebring 12 Hours 2026: Jack Hawksworth’s 100th Career IMSA Start and the Journey with Lexus
The motorsport world is abuzz as the iconic Sebring International Raceway prepares for the much-anticipated 2026 edition of the 12 Hours of Sebring. This race holds a special significance for British driver Jack Hawksworth, marking his landmark 100th career start in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship. A driver known for his tenacity and skill, Hawksworth has an impressive track record, with a dozen wins to his name, predominantly driving the formidable Lexus RC F GT3.
Reflecting on this significant milestone, Hawksworth expressed a mix of disbelief and gratitude, stating, “It’s crazy, really. Time flies, and obviously, I’ve been fortunate enough to be with Lexus through some of the best times of my career. A decade has passed, and here we are, preparing for my 100th race together, which is a unique achievement in itself.” His profound connection with the Lexus brand is evident as he reminisces about the shared experiences from countless races, celebrating both triumphant victories and challenging moments along the way.
What makes this milestone even more remarkable is the serendipitous nature of his realization regarding the 100 starts. “To be honest, I had no idea I was approaching this milestone until Lexus PR informed me,” Hawksworth remarked, revealing his initial shock upon discovering the significance of the number. “At the end of the day, it’s just a number, right? The real stats that matter are those of victories and podium finishes. Still, to have started 100 races with primarily the same manufacturer is something I find quite cool. It’s a reminder of the journey we’ve taken from the inception of this program.”
Hawksworth’s journey in racing has seen him involved in many intense battles on the track, with one of his standout performances being the 2023 GTD Pro title—an achievement that solidified his status as a formidable competitor in the IMSA landscape. Sebring, with its challenging layout and demanding conditions, is a track where Hawksworth has historically excelled. He has remarkable successes, including class victories in 2020 and 2024, and podium finishes in the last three 12-hour races at Sebring. Yet, despite his track record, Hawksworth remains humble, acknowledging the difficulty in pinpointing exactly why certain tracks resonate with him.
As he anticipates the upcoming race, he also reflects on the impending retirement of the Lexus RC F GT3. Hawksworth notes, “You can almost draw a parallel between myself and the evolution of the Vasser Sullivan program and the journey of the RC F GT3 in American racing.” He expresses admiration for the progress made since 2017 when the program first began. “It’s been incredible to see how far we’ve come, evolving into a competitive force at every race we enter,” Hawksworth adds with pride, recognizing the invaluable collaborations he has formed with an incredible team throughout this journey.
A New Chapter: Partnering with Kyle Kirkwood
This year’s Sebring edition not only marks Hawksworth’s centennial start but also features exciting dynamics in his racing lineup. He will once again team up with regular co-driver Ben Barnicoat, but this time they will be joined by IndyCar sensation Kyle Kirkwood. Fresh from triumphing over his peers, including the seasoned Alex Palou, Kirkwood’s recent victory at the inaugural IndyCar Grand Prix of Arlington adds to the anticipation for this race.
“It’s definitely nice that he’s coming off a win and joining us at Sebring,” Hawksworth said about Kirkwood’s recent success. “Kyle has had an exceptional start to the IndyCar season, and we’ve all been rooting for him. It’s been exciting for me to get back into watching IndyCar and seeing his accomplishments this season. With his recent victory, I hope he brings that momentum and winning spirit to our team this weekend.”
Kirkwood’s presence adds an exciting dimension to the team. This talented driver, having built a solid relationship with both Hawksworth and Barnicoat, brings considerable energy and positivity, which could prove invaluable in a 12-hour endurance race where teamwork and cohesion are paramount.
Looking Ahead
As the 2026 Sebring 12 Hours approaches, the atmosphere is charged with excitement and anticipation. This race symbolizes not just the culmination of Hawksworth’s past achievements but also serves as a platform for potential future successes. The prospect of celebrating his 100th start with a strong performance alongside talented teammates is a motivating factor for Hawksworth.
The challenges of endurance racing are well-known, and this year’s Sebring will undoubtedly test the mettle of all drivers involved. With diverse weather conditions, a gritty track surface, and fierce competition, the stakes are high. Hawksworth remains focused on the task at hand, demonstrating the kind of determination that has won him fans around the world.
Through passion, commitment, and teamwork, Hawksworth has built an inspiring legacy in the world of motorsport. As he prepares for the big race, he knows that he is part of something much larger than just personal milestones—it’s about champions, teamwork, and the thrill of racing itself. This upcoming race in 2026 is not just another entry on his résumé; it’s a celebration of achievement, perseverance, and the shared love of the sport that has fueled his journey thus far.
In conclusion, as we look forward to witnessing Hawksworth’s 100th IMSA start during the Sebring 12 Hours, it’s evident that his career embodies the spirit of resilience and the unyielding pursuit of excellence. Whether it be through conquering challenges on the track or forming lasting bonds with his team, each moment contributes to a rich narrative that enriches the world of motorsport. The countdown to Sebring is on, and all eyes will be on Jack Hawksworth as he steps into this momentous occasion with hopes for victory and the promise of unforgettable memories.