The Evolution of AO Racing and the Iconic Liveries
In the fast-paced world of motorsports, one team has managed to capture the hearts of fans and competitors alike with their unique and eye-catching liveries. AO Racing, a relatively new name in the sportscar paddock, burst onto the scene in 2022 with a mission to compete in the IMSA Weathertech SportsCar Championship season. Co-founders PJ Hyett and Gunnar Jeannette had a personal connection to the sport, with Hyett owning the Porsche 935 that took the win at the 1983 Rolex 24, and Jeannette’s father having worked on that winning car.
For their debut races in January of 2023, AO Racing ran a Porsche Type-992 Porsche 911 GT3 R with a livery that paid homage to their past. The No. 80 car sported the same colors as the iconic Porsche 935, a nod to their racing heritage. However, the team knew they wanted a livery of their own for the rest of the season, one that would appeal to kids and Porsche fans alike.
Inspiration struck in the form of a custom helmet worn by Hyett during the races, which featured a prehistoric dinosaur scene on one side and a “fantasy unicorn” on the other. The team initially considered a unicorn theme for their livery but pivoted to a dinosaur theme when they learned that a competitor had already used a pink unicorn livery the previous season. Thus, Rexy the bright green No. 80 Porsche 911 GT3 Rawr was born, capturing the imagination of fans and spectators alike.
The design of Rexy, created by designer TJ Harley, accentuated the GT3’s curves to resemble a T-Rex. The car’s flared rear fenders served as haunches, while the front end featured a cartoonish flattened dino face with green-tinted headlights for eyes. The overall effect was a striking and unforgettable livery that made Rexy stand out on the track at events like the 2023 Sebring race.
The arrival of Rexy at the paddock was accompanied by a charming cartoon mascot, stickers for fans, and a team member dressed in a green inflatable dinosaur costume, adding to the whimsical and fun atmosphere of the team. Later in the year, Roxy, Rexy’s hot pink twin sister, joined the AO Racing lineup, debuting at the 2023 Michelin GT Challenge at VIR and The Battle of the Bricks at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
The Expansion and Evolution of AO Racing’s Livery
As AO Racing’s popularity grew, so did their lineup of iconic liveries. In 2024, the team expanded to a second full-time car in IMSA’s LMP2 class, introducing Spike the Dragon, a uniquely adorable purple dragon livery that stood out on the track. Finding the right creature to fit the LMP2’s body and appeal to fans of all ages was a challenge, but AO Racing found success with the lovable Spike.
The 2024 season also marked a significant milestone for Rexy, as AO Racing moved up to the GTD Pro class, where the team continued to dominate with wins in Laguna Seca and Detroit. Rexy’s on-track performance, combined with the team’s engaging and colorful liveries, made them a fan favorite in the paddock and solidified their position as a top contender in the championship.
According to Kelly Brouillet, the team’s public relations representative, AO Racing’s liveries have captured the attention of fans of all ages, from young children to adult enthusiasts. The team’s commitment to creating a unique identity that resonates with fans has paid off, with Rexy, Roxy, and Spike becoming beloved characters in the world of motorsports.
The Impact of AO Racing’s Liveries on Fans and the Industry
The colorful and playful liveries of AO Racing have not only captured the hearts of fans but have also garnered attention from industry insiders. Volker Holzmeyer, President and CEO of Porsche Motorsport North America, praised AO Racing for creating something special that has energized fan interest and showcased the team’s on-track performance.
Nate Siebens, Director of Communications at IMSA, noted that while Corvette Racing has long been a fan favorite in the paddock, AO Racing’s liveries have made a significant impression on spectators and competitors alike. The team’s commitment to engaging with fans through merchandise, mascots, and interactive experiences has set them apart as a unique and beloved presence in the world of motorsports.
As AO Racing continues to compete in the IMSA Weathertech SportsCar Championship, fans can expect to see Rexy, Roxy, and Spike tearing up the track in their vibrant and eye-catching liveries. With the team’s focus on performance and fan engagement, it’s clear that AO Racing is not just a racing team but a beloved and iconic presence in the world of motorsports.
