While the 2025 Rolex 24 at Daytona delivered thrilling moments, with the No. 7 Penske Porsche team taking a spectacular win, one glaring question remained: why don’t more NASCAR Cup Series drivers participate in this legendary event?
Speaking candidly, Austin Cindric, one of the few full-time NASCAR drivers in this year’s field, shared his thoughts on the reluctance of his peers to take part in the iconic endurance race. Alongside Shane van Gisbergen, Cindric was one of only two full-time Cup drivers competing, a statistic that highlights a surprising gap between NASCAR and IMSA.
The challenge of adapting to GT3 cars
Cindric pointed to a critical factor: the steep learning curve for NASCAR drivers unfamiliar with the intricacies of GT3 cars.
“Obviously, a bit of an unknown value as far as the performance in the car and learning the car,” Cindric explained. “Shane [van Gisbergen] and I are a bit different than most of the guys in the Cup field with the average GT3 experience.”
Unlike stock cars, GT3 machines demand a unique skill set, particularly on road courses. For drivers accustomed to the oval-heavy NASCAR schedule, transitioning to endurance racing can require a significant investment of time and effort during the offseason.
A matter of passion and priorities
Cindric believes that participation boils down to passion. For him, the allure of the Rolex 24 was irresistible—a dream he’s harbored for years.
“I think those who wanna do it really badly end up doing it,” he said. “I definitely wanted to do it, really bad all these years.”
His determination paid off when he replaced Ben Barker, who was sidelined by a skiing accident. This opportunity allowed Cindric to combine his passion for sports cars with his road-racing experience.
A missed opportunity for NASCAR
Cindric’s comments raise an important point: the presence of more NASCAR drivers could not only elevate the Rolex 24’s profile but also serve as invaluable preparation for the Daytona 500. The crossover potential between NASCAR and IMSA remains underutilized, even as the two series share a governing body.
By showcasing NASCAR talent in the endurance racing arena, drivers could expand their skill sets, while fans could gain a deeper appreciation for the versatility of Cup Series racers. For Cindric, the benefits are clear, and he hopes to see more of his NASCAR colleagues on the Rolex 24 grid in the future.
What lies ahead for Cindric?
Cindric’s participation this year underscores his commitment to expanding his horizons beyond NASCAR. With Team Penske’s established presence in IMSA, the young driver may have more opportunities to compete in endurance racing, which could further hone his skills for road courses and beyond.
For now, the experience gained at Daytona will undoubtedly serve him well as he transitions back to the high-stakes world of NASCAR and prepares for the 2025 Daytona 500.
