LAURA HAYES Makes Bold BMW Switch Mid-Season for GT4 America Future Strategy

September 4, 2025

by Jonathan Grace // from sportscar365.com

• LAURA HAYES and co-driver Allen Patten made a strategic mid-season switch from Toyota GR Supra to BMW M4 GT4 machinery with Thunder Bunny Racing, prioritizing long-term competitiveness over short-term consistency. The move came after strong early-season showings including back-to-back second-place finishes at Sebring and race-leading pace at COTA before mechanical failures derailed their momentum.
• The partnership brings serious pedigree to GT4 America’s Am class – HAYES and Patten claimed a World Racing League national championship in 2023 and have extensive Supra experience from GridLife events to Pikes Peak. Their decision to switch platforms mid-season shows the kind of calculated risk-taking that separates contenders from also-rans, especially with Toyota ending GR Supra road car production next spring.
• Currently seventh in Am class points with five races remaining, the team’s singular BMW outing netted a sixth-place finish at Road America. Both drivers remain confident about their pace and potential, with Patten noting “if we can put it all together, I think we can do it” regarding their win prospects. The upcoming Barber triple-header represents a crucial opportunity to validate their mid-season gamble.

am class, bmw m4 gt4, gt4 america, thunder bunny racing