what time does rolex 24 start | Rolex 24 weekend schedule

The Rolex 24 at Daytona, a grueling endurance race held at Daytona International Speedway, is a highlight of the motorsports calendar. Fans eagerly anticipate the roar of the engines, the strategic battles in the pits, and the unwavering determination of the drivers as they navigate the challenging 24-hour event. Planning your trip or TV viewing schedule requires knowing exactly *when* the race kicks off. This article provides a comprehensive guide to the Rolex 24 schedule, including start times, qualifying information, and TV broadcast details, focusing on the upcoming 2025 race. We'll delve into the Rolex 24 2025 dates, the Rolex 24 weekend schedule, qualifying for the Rolex 24 hour, the Rolex 24 hour schedule itself, the Rolex 24 2025 TV schedule, and the overall Rolex 24 hours TV schedule. We'll also touch upon the anticipated 2025 Rolex 24 entry list.

Understanding the Rolex 24 Weekend Schedule

The Rolex 24 isn't just a single race; it's a multi-day motorsport festival. The weekend leading up to the main event is packed with practice sessions, qualifying runs, support races, and fan activities. To fully appreciate the event, it's essential to understand the structure of the Rolex 24 weekend schedule.

Rolex 24 2025 Dates:

While the exact dates can vary slightly from year to year, the Rolex 24 traditionally takes place on the last weekend of January. For the 2025 edition, anticipate the Rolex 24 2025 dates to fall between Thursday, January 23rd, and Sunday, January 26th, 2025. This timeframe allows for the full weekend schedule of events, culminating in the 24-hour race itself. Keep an eye on the official IMSA website (www.imsa.com) for the definitive confirmation of the 2025 dates as they become available.

Rolex 24 Weekend Schedule Breakdown (Example Based on Typical Schedule):

This is a *sample* schedule, and the exact timings may be subject to change. Always refer to the official IMSA schedule for the most accurate information as the event approaches.

* Thursday, January 23rd, 2025 (Preliminary Days):

* Morning: Practice sessions for support series (e.g., IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge, IMSA VP Racing SportsCar Challenge). These provide exciting racing action and a preview of the weekend's competition.

* Afternoon: The first practice session for the Rolex 24 participants. This is a crucial opportunity for teams to shake down their cars, assess track conditions, and begin fine-tuning their setups. This session often runs for a significant duration, allowing ample time for data collection.

* Evening: A second practice session, often held under the lights. Night practice is vital, as a substantial portion of the Rolex 24 is run in darkness. Drivers need to acclimate to the nighttime conditions, and teams need to ensure their lighting systems are performing optimally.

* Friday, January 24th, 2025 (Qualifying Day):

* Morning: Final practice sessions for support series, leading up to their qualifying sessions.

* Afternoon: Qualifying for the Rolex 24 Hour. This is where drivers battle for pole position in their respective classes. The qualifying format typically involves a timed session for each class (GTP, LMP2, GTD Pro, GTD), with the fastest lap determining the starting order. Qualifying is a high-pressure event, as track position is advantageous, especially at the start of a 24-hour race. The precise timing and duration of each qualifying session will be detailed in the official schedule.

* Evening: Typically features a support race, such as the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge race. This provides a thrilling spectacle for fans and adds to the overall atmosphere of the weekend.

* Saturday, January 25th, 2025 (Race Day):what time does rolex 24 start

* Morning: Final preparations for the Rolex 24, including driver introductions, pre-race ceremonies, and final car checks.

* Afternoon: The Rolex 24 Hour Race Start. This is the moment everyone has been waiting for. The green flag drops, and the 24-hour battle begins. The anticipated Rolex 24 start time is typically around 1:40 PM EST (Eastern Standard Time). However, it's crucial to confirm the exact start time on the official IMSA schedule as the event draws closer. The atmosphere at the start is electric, with the roar of the engines and the anticipation of the long race ahead.

* Afternoon/Evening/Night: The race continues through the day and night, with constant action on the track and in the pits. Teams execute their strategies, drivers push their limits, and mechanical issues are addressed as they arise.

* Sunday, January 26th, 2025 (Race Day):