2026 Rolex 24 at Daytona: A Competitive Preview of GTD PRO
The 2026 Rolex 24 at Daytona is set to showcase the highly competitive GTD PRO category, which emerges from the legacy of GTLM. This year, 15 cars representing nine manufacturers will contest the race, marking a significant moment as several new and returning models debut.
Manufacturer Highlights
Among the notable entrants, Ferrari, Porsche, and Ford will see the competitive introductions of their GT3 ‘Evo’ models. McLaren returns to the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship after a one-year absence, joining seasoned contenders like BMW, Chevrolet, Lamborghini, Lexus, and Mercedes-AMG.
Key Entries
BMW M4 GT3 Evo
Paul Miller Racing fields the only BMW M4 GT3 Evo in GTD PRO, featuring an all-pro line-up: Connor De Phillippi, Neil Verhagen, Max Hesse, and Dan Harper. Having shown strong performance in previous seasons, including securing the Michelin Endurance Cup, the team aims for BMW’s first all-pro victory at Daytona.
Chevrolet Corvette Z06 GT3.R
Corvette Racing enters with two entries, the #3 and #4 cars, featuring proven drivers Antonio García, Alexander Sims, Tommy Milner, and Nicky Catsburg. The #3 car, which finished second at Daytona last year, is in contention for further success following a strong 2025 season that included winning the manufacturers’ title.
Ferrari 296 GT3 Evo
Triarsi Competizione and Risi Competizione will represent Ferrari, both boasting talented line-ups including James Calado, Riccardo Agostini, and Alessandro Pier Guidi. This marks a significant opportunity for the 296 GT3 Evo, following its recent success in GT racing.
Ford Mustang GT3 Evo
Ford Racing looks to defend its title with two Mustang GT3 Evo entries, rebranding its efforts while showcasing updated car specifications. Drivers include Christopher Mies and Frédéric Vervisch in the #65 car, with a strong anticipation following their victory at last year’s event.
Lamborghini Huracán GT3 EVO2
Pfaff Motorsports aims for a fitting farewell to the Huracán, which has been a staple of GTD competition for several years. Drivers Andrea Caldarelli, Sandy Mitchell, and Mirko Bortolotti lead the contingent, with hopes of securing a final victory.
Lexus RC F GT3
The experienced Vasser Sullivan Racing team looks to clinch a long-awaited Daytona win with its #14 entry, featuring Jack Hawksworth, Ben Barnicoat, and Kyle Kirkwood. This could be a poignant conclusion for the RC F GT3, as speculation around the new GR GT3 model’s debut continues.
Mercedes-AMG GT3 EVO
With a mix of experience and rising stars, including Will Power making his Daytona debut with 75 Express, Mercedes-AMG enters a robust field. The three-car effort includes Winward Racing’s #48 entry and GetSpeed’s #69, all prepared to contend fiercely.
McLaren 720S GT3 Evo
Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing embarks on a new chapter with McLaren. Their youthful driver line-up, including 17-year-old Nikita Johnson, faces the challenge of performing in their first Rolex 24. The team’s goal is to leverage their speed while overcoming the steep learning curve of endurance racing.
Porsche 911 GT3 R
The Porsche contingent includes the return of AO Racing and Manthey, featuring experienced drivers like Nick Tandy and Klaus Bachler. Both teams are well-positioned to leverage their extensive racing backgrounds to secure a strong finish in what could be an intense battle for GTD PRO supremacy.
As the Rolex 24 approaches, tension builds among teams and drivers, all eager to compete for glory in one of motorsport’s most daunting endurance races.
