The legendary Rolex 24 at Daytona, a famous endurance race that takes place at the Daytona International Speedway, will be run on Saturday 24 January, starting at 13:40 local time in Florida (19:40 here).
The Rolex 24 at Daytona 2026 is preparing to write a new chapter in the history of endurance racing. On 24 January 2026, when the iconic Rolex positioned at the starting line will mark 13:40 local time, drivers will begin one of the most fascinating challenges in world motorsport. This year, then, the event takes on a special significance: Rolex is in fact celebrating the centenary of the Oyster, the famous watch that made motor racing history just a few kilometres away from the Daytona International Speedway.
The Rolex 24 at Daytona is now in its 64th edition. This legendary race severely tests human endurance and mechanical performance for 24 consecutive hours. With 60 cars on the grid in four categories, including 11 Grand Touring Prototype (GTP) cars from five different manufacturers, the race promises spectacular action from the first to the last lap.
The link between the crowned company and Daytona dates back to 1933, when Sir Malcolm Campbell set a speed record of 272 miles per hour (equivalent to 438 kilometres per hour) at Daytona Beach, aboard his Bluebird and wearing a Rolex Oyster on his wrist. This pioneering moment laid the foundation for a partnership that has lasted for over 60 years. In 1992, the event officially adopted the name Rolex 24 At Daytona. The Rolex Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona, created in 1963, is the perfect symbol of this fusion of haute horlogerie and motorsport. In fact, each winner of the Rolex 24 at Daytona receives a specially engraved Rolex Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona, an acknowledgement of the skill and resilience required to achieve victory.
Rolex 24 at Daytona 2026: the start is set for 24 January
The 2026 edition of the famous motor race marks the 60th anniversary of the transformation of this competition from a short race to an endurance race.
Jenson Button, Rolex Testimonee and third place finisher at the 2024 edition, describes the Rolex 24 At Daytona as "the perfect way to open the endurance racing season. With speeds of up to 322 km/h, steep banked corners, strong G-forces and a track that is conducive to continuous overtaking, every component of the cars is pushed to the limit. The Porsche Penske Motorsport team is confirmed as one of the favourites after its 20th overall victory in 2025, aiming for a third consecutive title this year.
In the Rolex 24 at Daytona, timekeeping is paramount. From the crucial seconds of pit stops to the drivers' shifts, every decision is punctuated by the countdown of the Rolex watch that dominates the circuit. As Scott Pruett, who has won the race five times and shares the record for victories with compatriot Hurley Haywood, points out, 'the difference between victory and defeat is often a matter of a few seconds, with close competition right up to the chequered flag. This year also marks the 60th anniversary of the transformation of the event from a short race to a 24-hour competition.
The Rolex 24 at Daytona 2026 therefore promises to be a memorable event for motorsport enthusiasts and professionals alike. With variable weather conditions, extreme technical challenges, and the unique allure of night racing, this competition continues to be a highly proving ground for drivers and machines. The electrifying atmosphere of Daytona International Speedway, the presence of the world's best teams and the celebration of the Oyster's centenary make the 2026 edition of this legendary race an event not to be missed.
