The Daytona 24 Hour is no stranger to motorsport history, but this year’s edition had a unique significance as it marked the debut of the highly anticipated GTP/LMDh category. As one of the most prestigious endurance races in the world, Daytona has long been a proving ground for drivers and manufacturers. This year, Acura, BMW, Cadillac, and Porsche brought their new top-class prototypes to the field, marking the start of what many believe to be a transformative era in motorsport.
Uncertainty loomed large in the paddock ahead of the race. The GTP/LMDh prototypes, faced significant reliability questions heading into the event. Several teams had yet to complete a full 24-hour test, and pre season testing has been disrupted by mechanical issues. To make matters worse, lingering supply chain constraints from the COVID-19 pandemic left many teams short on spares, many entering the race with only a single backup set. Confidence among the manufacturers was noticeably tempered.
Despite the challenges, the excitement surrounding the race was undeniable. Daytona saw a record-breaking 50,000 spectators, a testament to the anticipation of witnessing this new class in action.
From the moment the green flag dropped, the GTP teams pushed their performance envelope. Action Express Racing’s Cadillac V-LMDh was the first to encounter drama, suffering suspension damage after contact. BMW faced a greater setback when their M Hybrid V8 requiring a Motor Generator Unit (MGU) change during the race. Porsche Penske, on the other hand, impressed with a highly efficient energy storage system swap on their 963, completing the complex procedure in just 35 minutes, an impressive feat given the technical demands of the new cars.
As the race wore on, Acura and Cadillac emerged as the frontrunners. The Acura ARX-06, in particular, demonstrated exceptional pace, seemingly bulletproof compared to its competitors.
In the end, it was Meyer Shank Racing’s Acura ARX-06 that claimed the victory, securing the first win of the GTP/LMDh era. This inaugural race not only proved the competitiveness of the new class but also set the stage for what promises to be a new chapter in endurance racing. The excitement surrounding the GTP/LMDh category is clear, and while reliability questions remain, the future looks bright for GTP.
The 2023 Rolex 24 was more than just a race, it was the beginning of a new era, one that will define the next generation of sportscar racing.
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