Andretti and Ganassi Drivers Set for Rolex 24 at Daytona
Overview
The 2024 Rolex 24 at Daytona will feature a significant representation from the IndyCar Series, with all drivers from Andretti Global and Chip Ganassi Racing participating in this prestigious endurance event. Scheduled for January 26-28, the race promises to deliver a competitive mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars.
Key Participants
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Andretti Global:
- Kyle Kirkwood will drive for Vasser Sullivan Lexus in the GTD Pro category. His longstanding relationship with team owners Jimmy Vasser and James Sullivan has solidified his place in the factory Lexus program.
- Will Power, making his Rolex 24 debut, and Marcus Ericsson will race for 75 Express Mercedes-AMG and Wayne Taylor Racing Lamborghini, respectively.
- Colton Herta, not currently in the IndyCar lineup but expected to race in the Indianapolis 500, represents Andretti in the GTP class with Cadillac Wayne Taylor Racing. Herta holds two Rolex 24 wins from previous years.
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Chip Ganassi Racing:
- IndyCar champion Alex Palou will team with Scott Dixon, who boasts 22 starts and four past victories at Daytona, in the GTP class with Acura.
- Christian Rasmussen returns to LMP2 with AO Racing while Nolan Siegel aims for another podium finish in the same class for Inter Europol Competition.
Class Breakdown
The event will cover four classes: GTP, GTD, GTD Pro, and LMP2, ensuring a diverse field:
- GTP: The premier category will showcase Ganassi’s Acura lineup and veteran talent including AJ Allmendinger.
- GTD and GTD Pro: Focused on pro-am driver pairings, with Power, Ericsson, and Kirkwood representing their respective teams.
- LMP2: Features a mix of IndyCar talent with newcomers and established names like Sebastien Bourdais and Logan Sargeant.
Notable Insights
- The decision for Kirkwood, Power, and Ericsson to compete in GT rather than GTP reflects strategic choices within their teams. Kirkwood’s commitment to Lexus is particularly noteworthy given his potential interest from prototype programs.
- The Rolex 24 serves as a key opportunity for emerging talents such as Connor Zilisch, who will make his GTP debut after a successful 2023 campaign.
Conclusion
With a strong blend of experience and new talent, the Rolex 24 at Daytona is poised to be a thrilling season opener for the WeatherTech SportsCar Championship. The high-profile involvement of IndyCar drivers underscores the event’s significance in the wider motorsports landscape. Racing fans can expect compelling narratives and fierce competition throughout the 24-hour endurance race.
