Big changes for IMSA and the Rolex 24 are on the grid for 2023. However, unless you are a race fan or “car person” or otherwise involved in motorsport, you might never know. Regular television and their newcasts don’t seem to mention the Rolex or the scale of the race at Daytona as an opening of American racing for the new year. All eyes continue to follow the NFL and the season games leading to the Superbowl.
Now… We’re not saying that the Superbowl is not a big thing. It’s just that a mention or some
“B roll” of the pit area under a voice-over acknowledging that there is an event in Daytona would be appreciated. The number of points of interest create a few good angles to pursue for even a basic preview. After all… Twenty-four hour endurance races don’t happen every day…
For example, the return of the GTP class as the upper end prototype moving into 2023 which replaces the “Daytona Prototype” is a pretty big deal. The “Grand Touring Prototypes” feature Le Mans Daytona hybrids and Le Mans Hypercars allowing manufacturers to showcase and build upon hybrid technology while racing with improved performance. The GTP class was king of the road back in the 1980s into the 90s and the return with new tech should be something to watch into this new season.
Another angle, perhaps, are the drivers and teams running with mixed backgrounds of open wheel and sports car racing. The location, Daytona, also presents the story line as a motorsport focus for the good part of a month. The “Roar”, the Rolex, The NASCAR Duels and the Daytona 500 put Daytona on the international map as a focal point of speed.
For car fans there are even more bits to look at. A large field and variety for this year means more action on the track and more emphasis on manufacturers mixed with driver skill and team performance. Mix that with the racing in the Michelin Pilot Challenge and the manufacturer mix is expanded even further.
Perhaps, a sideways glance with a dash of humor could entice some mention in prime time news. Porsche is having a time with the current race package and the Balance of Performance rules. The new 992-type 911 GT3 R entries are not running with the rest of the pack very well. They are easily 2 to 3 seconds off the pace. After the “Roar” practices and shakedowns, the IMSA ruling on BoP did not offer bump for Porsche. Their confidence, however, in the machine and the teams seems to be holding as they look for performance during the Rolex.
Football seems to be king this time of year. All we are saying is… “Hey… Over here..! There are some things happening that might have some interest to your viewers… “
There is a lot of racing coming up. Here in Virginia, the Rolex 24 has a lot of connections. The GTD Pro / GTD classes will be racing at Virginia International Raceway later on. Some of these drivers (Hélio Castroneves confirmed) could show up at Motor Mile Speedway for the SRX event later this year. As a lead in to NASCAR, Virginia is to host quite a bit of action.
Put the football down and go racing!
