GTD Contenders Gear Up for Rolex 24: A Deep Dive into Key Teams and Drivers
As the Rolex 24 approaches, the GTD class features a highly competitive 21-car field representing nine manufacturers. The stakes are higher than ever as teams vie for both victory and the renowned Rolex Daytona timepiece.
A highlight of the 2025 season was Corvette Racing’s breakthrough with AWA, securing the Z06 GT3.R’s inaugural 24-hour race win. Under new branding as 13 Autosport, the team, now fully owned by Orey Fidani, seeks to defend its title. “Nothing’s changed really in terms of operations,” Fidani stated. He affirms that the streamlined ownership structure makes for a more stable environment.
Driver roster for 13 Autosport includes Matt Bell, Lars Kern, and Ben Green. Bell expressed confidence in the team’s preparations, stating, “We’re leaving no stone unturned, and we’re as prepared as anyone at this stage.”
DXDT Racing returns with significant improvements, spearheaded by factory driver Charlie Eastwood. He believes the team is well-equipped for a podium finish, citing a successful testing session prior to the race. The lineup includes Silver-graded drivers Salih Yoluc and Mason Filippi alongside Eastwood and IndyCar’s Scott McLaughlin. Eastwood emphasized the team’s extensive testing, which yielded insightful data on the new Michelin GTD tires.
“They could be a game changer,” he remarked regarding the tire feedback, noting that lap times show incremental but promising improvements.
In testing, DXDT completed 185 laps, clocking the fastest time among the Z06 GT3.Rs. Eastwood shared, “The Corvette feels unbelievable…if you have a really good base here, it helps a lot.”
Newcomer DragonSpeed enters 2026 after a successful run in GTD Pro with Ferrari. Transitioning to Corvette, the team, led by Elton Julian, has been busy preparing for the opening race. Driver Casper Stevenson reported a productive shakedown, stating, “The car has run faultlessly.” He expressed optimism about their competitiveness, especially with Matteo Cairoli joining the driver lineup.
As preparation continues, DragonSpeed capitalizes on its extensive experience in motorsport, positioning itself as a potential surprise package in the early stages of the season.
With all teams entrenched in rigorous preparations and technical developments, the Rolex 24 promises excitement, tactical battles, and the enduring quest for automotive excellence.
