Photo: © D. Paul Graham / imageGRAHAM, LLC

A Primer for the Rolex 24 Hours at Daytona

It’s one of the most famous races in the world and it kicks off the 2024 race season.  The green flag for the Rolex 24 at Daytona drops today at 1:40 pm.  Four race classes with a total of 59 cars will run for 24 hours, switching drivers through the day and night.

Everyone froze their mufflers last weekend during the “Roar Before the 24’. This weekend, temps will be in the high 70’s making conditions much better for all to enjoy.

The Rolex 24 is an endurance race, which means there are no set laps.  The winning team takes home the hardware (and a steel and yellow gold Rolex Oyster Daytona watch) by completing the most racing laps over the 24 hour period.

Each team has 3 to 4 drivers and each driver must race at least 2 hours in the GTP Prototype and GTP Pro classes and 4.5 hours in the LMP and GTD class.

Daytona configures the Rolex 24 track at 3.56 miles. The Daytona 500 tracks runs at 2.5 miles. 

The four classes of cars competing in the Rolex 24 at Daytona are:

• GTP: A hybrid V-8 engine with a top speed of 202 mph at 680 horsepower. These prototypes may be the future of auto racing. This year features 10 GTP cars.
• LMP2: This year 13 cars will compete in this class. With a top end of 186 mph from 510 hp, these can be recognized by blue trim on the mirrors, rear-wing endplates and class plates.
• GTD and GTD Pro: With these 2 classes of GTD cars, the GTD Pro are professional drivers. The 36 GTD cars peak at 175 mph from 540 hp.

With near perfect temperatures, this years Rolex 24 Hours at Daytons is sure to be exciting.  

South Magazine is there with D. Paul Graham.

All Photos © D. Paul Graham / imageGRAHAM 2024