On Wednesday, January 17th, 2018, IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship released the official entry list for the 56th running of the Rolex 24 at Daytona, a race that consistently captivates motorsport fans worldwide. This prestigious event, held annually at Daytona International Speedway, showcases some of the most technologically advanced and expertly driven race cars in the world, competing for 24 grueling hours. The 2018 race promised intense competition and thrilling finishes, and the entry list itself provided a tantalizing preview of the action to come. This article will delve into the highlights of that 2018 entry list, offering a retrospective look at the teams and drivers who participated, while also exploring the broader context of the Rolex 24 and its enduring appeal, including ticket information for future events.
The 2018 Rolex 24 at Daytona attracted a diverse field of competitors, representing various classes and manufacturers. The intense rivalry between established teams and ambitious newcomers guaranteed a captivating race. While a complete reproduction of the extensive 2018 entry list is beyond the scope of this article, we can highlight some of the key entries and storylines that unfolded before the green flag dropped. Many teams fielded factory-backed efforts, showcasing the latest technological advancements and the commitment of major automotive manufacturers to endurance racing. This competition also highlighted the deep talent pool of professional drivers, many of whom were seasoned veterans with extensive experience at Daytona and other prestigious endurance races.
Key Highlights from the 2018 Entry List (Illustrative Examples):
While the full list is no longer readily available online in its original format, we can discuss the general composition and notable participants. The 2018 race typically featured entries across multiple classes, including:
* Prototype (DPi): This class featured the most advanced and powerful cars, often representing the cutting edge of sports car technology. Leading manufacturers like Cadillac, Nissan, and Mazda were likely represented, each bringing their own engineering expertise and driver lineups. The competition within this class was fierce, with teams battling for overall victory.
* GT Le Mans (GTLM): This class showcased the best of factory-backed GT racing, with manufacturers like Porsche, BMW, Corvette, and Ford competing. These cars, while less powerful than the prototypes, were highly refined and capable of impressive lap times. The battles for class victory in GTLM were always intense, with small margins separating the top contenders.
* GT Daytona (GTD): This class usually had a larger field of entries, featuring a wider range of manufacturers and often including many privateer teams. This class provided a platform for both established teams and rising stars to showcase their abilities. The competition was often incredibly close, with multiple teams vying for the lead throughout the race.
Notable Teams and Drivers (Illustrative Examples):
The 2018 Rolex 24 likely included entries from legendary teams with a proven track record at Daytona, as well as newer teams aiming to make their mark. Experienced drivers, many of whom were multiple Rolex 24 winners, would have been paired with younger, up-and-coming talents. The blend of experience and youthful energy contributed significantly to the excitement and competitiveness of the race.
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