The 60th running of the Rolex 24 at Daytona in 2022 promised an incredible spectacle of endurance racing, featuring a record-breaking field of 61 cars battling for glory across multiple classes. This article will delve into the impressive Rolex 24 2022 entry list, analyzing the participating teams, drivers, and the overall competitive landscape that unfolded during this landmark event. We'll also briefly compare it to the 2021 entry list and highlight the significance of the event within the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship.
Rolex 24 Entry List: A Diverse Field of Contenders
The 2022 Rolex 24 at Daytona boasted a truly diverse entry list, showcasing the breadth and depth of talent within the global sports car racing community. The 61 cars were spread across five classes: Daytona Prototype international (DPi), Le Mans Prototype 2 (LMP2), Le Mans Prototype 3 (LMP3), GT Daytona Pro (GTD PRO), and GT Daytona (GTD). This diversity ensured intense competition not just within each class, but also between them, creating thrilling battles for track position throughout the grueling 24-hour race.
The DPi class, traditionally the pinnacle of the event, featured a mix of established manufacturers and rising stars. Teams like Cadillac Racing, Acura Team Penske, and Mazda Motorsports brought their top-tier prototypes, each boasting a strong driver lineup capable of challenging for the overall victory. These factory-backed entries brought significant resources and technological advancements to the race, setting a high benchmark for performance.
The LMP2 class, increasingly popular due to its cost-effectiveness and competitive nature, attracted a large and competitive field. Teams from across the globe participated, showcasing the international appeal of the Rolex 24. This class provided a thrilling sub-plot to the main event, with fierce battles for class victory and strong performances against some of the slower DPi cars.
The LMP3 class served as a crucial stepping stone for up-and-coming drivers and teams, offering valuable experience in endurance racing. While not competing for the overall win, the LMP3 entries provided engaging racing and contributed to the overall spectacle of the event. The close racing within this class often resulted in dramatic overtakes and exciting battles for position.
The GTD PRO and GTD classes represented the GT category, featuring a wide array of manufacturers and models, from established marques like Porsche, Ferrari, and Lamborghini to newer entrants. These classes showcased the beauty and performance of GT cars, with intense competition for class honors. The GTD PRO class, specifically, featured factory-backed entries, adding another layer of prestige and competition to the event.
The sheer number of entries, 61 cars, highlighted the enduring popularity and prestige of the Rolex 24 at Daytona. This large field provided a challenging environment for both drivers and teams, demanding strategic planning, flawless execution, and a significant level of resilience to overcome the inevitable challenges of a 24-hour race. The density of cars on track also contributed to the exciting and unpredictable nature of the race, with constant battles for position and close racing throughout the field.
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