IMSA has named HRC Global President Koji Watanabe as the honorary starter for 63rd Rolex 24 At Daytona.
This prestigious role will see Watanabe wave the green flag to commence one of the most celebrated endurance races in the world, set to take place at the iconic Daytona International Speedway on Saturday afternoon.
Koji Watanabe’s appointment as honorary starter for 63rd Rolex 24 At Daytona underscores Honda’s commitment to motorsport, particularly in North America.
Since taking on the leadership role in 2022, Watanabe has been instrumental in transforming HRC’s operations to encompass Honda’s diverse racing endeavors across both motorcycle and automotive sectors.
His extensive experience at Honda which spans nearly four decades includes leadership roles that have significantly boosted the presence and operational efficiency of the HRC global brand.
As the 61-year old prepares to signal the start of the Rolex 24, his involvement reflects a deep-rooted passion for racing and a recognition of the event’s importance within the motorsport community.
The Rolex 24 At Daytona is renowned for its grueling 24-hour format, where teams and drivers push their limits to achieve victory. The event is not only a highlight of the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship season but also a showcase of automotive innovation and competitive spirit.
This year’s race promises to be particularly exciting with Acura returning as the official safety car, featuring the sleek Acura Integra Type S. This marks the second time in three years that an Acura has taken on this pivotal role, following its successful performance during the 2023 event.
President of Honda Racing Corporation USA David Salters was pleased to reveal Acura’s role in this year’s race, highlighting how it embodies their dedication to motorsport and their collaborative relationship with IMSA.
“We are excited to have Acura and HRC represented for this year’s prestigious Rolex 24 in such a significant way,” said Salters.
“Acura electrified ARX-06 race cars on track, our sleek Acura Integra Type S cars pacing the race, and our HRC Global President Koji Watanabe all being involved in this legendary race just shows our commitment to this sport.
“We truly value IMSA and the Rolex 24 and especially the partnership we have with them.”
The significance of Watanabe’s participation extends beyond merely waving a flag; it symbolizes a bridge between Honda’s storied history in racing and its future aspirations within the sport.
Under his leadership, HRC has embraced new technologies and sustainability initiatives that align with contemporary trends in motorsport. The integration of hybrid technologies in racing is a testament to this forward-thinking approach, reflecting a broader industry shift towards greener practices while maintaining high-performance standards.
As fans gather for this year’s Rolex 24 at Daytona International Speedway, they can expect an electric atmosphere filled with excitement and anticipation. The event not only draws thousands of spectators but also garners substantial media attention and viewership worldwide.
In recent years, IMSA has reported record attendance figures and increased television ratings for the Rolex 24, indicating a growing interest in endurance racing.
The introduction of innovative classes such as Grand Touring Prototype (GTP) has further invigorated competition on track, attracting top manufacturers and teams eager to showcase their capabilities.
The Rolex 24 at Daytona serves as an essential platform for manufacturers like Acura to demonstrate their engineering prowess and competitive spirit. With multiple teams fielding entries in various classes, including GTP and GT Daytona (GTD), Acura aims to continue its legacy of success.
A pair of Acura ARX-06 cars are set to compete in the GTP class this weekend, entered under the Acura Meyer Shank Racing banner as they aim to defend their 2024 win at the iconic event.
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