Aquilante Scores Podium in Mustang Challenge Debut at Charlotte Motor Speedway

Aquilate’s signature two wheel stance makes it return to Charlorre Motor Speedway.

October 6, 2025 – Mooresville, NC

Phoenix Performance driver Andrew Aquilante made an impressive debut in the IMSA Mustang Challenge this past weekend at Charlotte Motor Speedway’s ROVAL, earning a podium finish in Race 2 and a top-four result in Race 1.

Finding Pace Early

Racing with Robert Noaker Racing, Aquilante drove the No. 32 Ford Mustang Dark Horse R in his first points-paying start in the new single-make series. He settled in quickly and showed strong pace, qualifying 7th in the Dark Horse class with a 1:29.714 lap time, just over a second behind pole-sitter and championship leader Robert Noaker.

Race 1: Solid Start with a Fourth-Place Finish

Saturday’s first 45-minute sprint saw Aquilante hold his own among the leaders. He stayed consistent and clean throughout the race, bringing the No. 32 Mustang home fourth overall in a strong debut performance.

Race 2: First Podium Under the Lights

Race 2 took place Saturday evening under the lights at Charlotte. After a few restarts and plenty of close racing, Aquilante moved through the pack and finished third overall, claiming his first podium in the Mustang Challenge.

Following the race, he shared his thoughts on the experience:

“This weekend was pretty cool, being under the lights and having fans out here from the NASCAR weekend. I have to thank Robert Noaker Racing and everyone who helped get this opportunity together. It was a lot of fun in the paddock, there was good camaraderie and good racing.”

Weekend Summary

• Qualifying: 7th (1:29.714)

• Race 1: 4th Overall

• Race 2: 3rd Overall (Podium)

Looking Ahead

The Charlotte weekend marked Aquilante’s first race in the Mustang Dark Horse R and his first start in the IMSA Mustang Challenge. The Phoenix Performance team congratulates Andrew on an outstanding debut and looks forward to more success as the season continues.