Rolex 24 GTD Pro: Corvette Takes the Lead! | Long-Run Analysis (2026)

Long-run analysis for GTD Pro: Corvette edges out Rolex 24

The GTD Pro class has seen a dramatic shift since the "Roar before the Rolex 24," mirroring the GTP class's evolution. This change is highlighted by Kenny Habul, owner of 75 Express Racing and driver of the Mercedes-AMG #75, who dismissed the "Roar" times as "bullshit" in an interview with Motorsport-Total.com. The real test began with the first practice sessions, but the times from free practice should still be taken with a grain of salt.

We analyzed the GTD Pro times, focusing on those under 1:53 minutes, and calculated the average for each session. Here's the breakdown:

1. Pratt-Miller Corvette #4 - 1:48.286 (69 laps under 1:53 minutes)
2. Pratt-Miller Corvette #3 - 1:48.352 (70)
3. GetSpeed Mercedes #69 - 1:48.418 (55)
4. Multimatic Ford #65 - 1:48.613 (26)
5. Manthey Porsche #911 - 1:48.616 (84)
6. 75-Express-Mercedes #75 - 1:48.657 (54)
7. Triarsi-Ferrari #033 - 1:48.702 (68)
8. Multimatic-Ford #64 - 1:48.743 (26)
9. Vasser-Sullivan-Lexus #14 - 1:48.793 (23)
10. RLL-McLaren #59 - 1:48.827 (64)
11. Risi-Ferrari #62 - 1:48.838 (44)
12. AO Porsche #77 - 1:48.866 (52)
13. Paul-Miller-BMW #1 - 1:48.975 (29)
14. Winward-Mercedes #48 - 1:49.105 (64)
15. Pfaff-Lamborghini #9 - 1:49.216 (42)

Despite not being at the top, Mercedes-AMG is still in a strong position, especially with its factory drivers. IMSA adjusted the minimum driving time for bronze drivers from four and a half to three and a half hours to maintain fairness.

The real surprise is the Pratt Miller Motorsports Corvettes, which have the best average times. The Ford Mustangs have fallen slightly behind but remain competitive. Manthey Racing's Porsche "Grello" is a standout, with a high number of laps under 1:53 minutes.

The midfield is dominated by Ferrari, Lexus, and Ford, including the RLL McLaren #59. Their priority is to finish, a new challenge for most drivers, with Max Esterson being the most experienced with one IMSA race under his belt.

Improvements Compared to the "Roar":
1. GetSpeed Mercedes #69 - 0.964 seconds faster
2. Paul Miller BMW #1 - 0.948
3. Pratt-Miller-Corvette #4 - 0.903
4. Winward Mercedes #48 - 0.865
5. Manthey Porsche #911 – 0.823
6. RLL McLaren #59 – 0.819
7. Pratt-Miller-Corvette #3 - 0.778
8. AO Porsche #77 - 0.732
9. Triarsi-Ferrari #033 - 0.610
10. Multimatic-Ford #65 - 0.403
11. Vasser-Sullivan-Lexus #14 - 0.392
12. Risi Ferrari #62 - 0.320
13. Multimatic-Ford #64 - 0.286
14. 75 Express Mercedes #75 - 0.146
15. Pfaff-Lamborghini #9 - -0.005

Mercedes-AMG's improvements are expected, as they were behind in the preliminary test. Paul Miller BMW #1 shows strong progress after a disastrous test, but still lags in average times. The median improvements were significantly greater than in the GTP class, suggesting sandbagging in the preliminary test.

Ford's gains were below average, slightly setting back the Mustangs. The Grello and McLaren's improvements are evident. Ferrari, despite a restrained performance, should not be written off at Daytona.

Pfaff Motorsports' Lamborghini had the best average in the first session but disappeared in the final test, possibly due to double stints. The real power balance will emerge late in the race, but the BoP adjustments seem to be working.

What do you think? Share your opinions in the comments!