The 64th edition of the Rolex 24 at Daytona, which opens the 2026 IMSA SportsCar Championship season, is scheduled for January 24‑25. This prestigious endurance race will feature a diverse lineup of drivers, ranging from emerging talent to seasoned veterans and NASCAR Cup Series participants.
Nineteen‑year‑old Connor Zilisch has been promoted to the premier GTP class, where he will drive Action Express Racing’s #31 Cadillac V‑Series.R alongside Earl Bamber, Jack Aitken and Frederik Vesti. Zilisch’s rapid ascent began with a win in the LMP2 class on his 2024 debut, followed by a stint in the GTD Pro class in 2025. His move to the top tier underscores his status as a generational talent.
Another NASCAR driver joining the 2026 Rolex 24 is AJ Allmendinger, who will race for Meyer Shank Racing w/ Curb‑Agajanian in the #60 Acura ARX‑06 (GTP). A 2012 overall winner of the Rolex 24, Allmendinger will share duties with Tom Blomqvist, Colin Braun and IndyCar legend Scott Dixon. The 44‑year‑old full‑time Cup Series driver is known for his versatility and has three Cup Series victories.
The event will feature a full grid of 61 cars across three classes: GTP, LMP2 and GTD. The entry list blends experienced drivers with newcomers, and includes several IndyCar participants such as Alex Palou, Will Power and Kyle Kirkwood. The GTP class promises strong competition, with teams like Action Express Racing, Meyer Shank Racing and Cadillac Racing vying for the top spot. The LMP2 class will showcase a mix of established teams and newcomers, while the GTD class will see manufacturers such as Acura, BMW and Ferrari represented.
As the 2026 IMSA SportsCar Championship season begins, the Rolex 24 at Daytona is poised to deliver an exciting showcase of endurance racing. With its rich history and a talented field of drivers, the event promises to be a must‑watch for motorsport enthusiasts.
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