IMSA Gears Up for 64th Rolex 24 At Daytona with Record Interest
As anticipation builds for the 64th Rolex 24 At Daytona, IMSA President John Doonan announced a strong 61-car entry list for the upcoming race, underscoring the event’s significance in the sports car racing calendar. This year marks a significant rebound from the pandemic-affected low of just 38 entries in 2020.
“This race has always been about bringing the best of the best from around the world,” Doonan asserted. The diverse field encompasses elite sports car drivers, IndyCar talent, former Formula 1 racers, and potential NASCAR participants, showcasing a blend of established drivers and fresh talent.
Among the notable returns are manufacturers like McLaren, which is re-entering the GT category, alongside new teams, including Manthey Racing, renowned for its expertise in GT competition. Doonan expressed pride in the community’s engagement, noting a “massively energetic” November test session as teams geared up just weeks after the Petit Le Mans.
The 61 entries are not the full story; an additional reserve list of nearly 30 candidates highlights a robust demand for participation in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship. “I think the level of competition is at a level I’ve maybe never seen before,” remarked Doonan, emphasizing the unparalleled talent on display.
The selection process for this year’s entries was notably competitive, with around 90 inquiries received, resulting in a field where 55 cars are committed to the full IMSA season. Doonan stated the approach involved evaluating full-season commitments, especially for the Michelin Endurance Cup races, and recognizing teams with strong marketing initiatives.
As the grid fills with a mix of established and new teams, including Magnus Racing, GetSpeed, and Mühlner Motorsports, a recurring question arises: how can aspiring teams without an IMSA background secure entry? Doonan explained that IMSA’s structure includes personal interactions with all entrants to assess their marketing strategies and driver line-ups, aiming to foster the growth of new participants in the series.
Discussion continues on potential expansion of pit lane and garage space at Daytona to accommodate increasing interest, though Doonan remains cautious about compromising quality for quantity. “I’m super sensitive to not messing up the quality just to have quantity,” he said, referencing the ongoing success of the event.
As the series continues to gain traction, the impending challenges of securing spots for prospective teams reflect both the growth and professionalism of the IMSA platform, positioning it alongside global championships in terms of competitiveness and talent. The Rolex 24 promises to be a hallmark event, emblematic of IMSA’s vibrant future.
