NASCAR drivers are increasingly participating in the Rolex 24 At Daytona, demonstrating their commitment to sports car racing beyond their primary discipline. This trend showcases the growing intersection between NASCAR and IMSA racing communities.

Austin Cindric, the 2022 Daytona 500 winner, emphasizes this isn't just an exhibition event. Driving a GTD PRO class Multimatic Ford Mustang, Cindric views this as an important stepping stone toward his goal of competing at Le Mans.

Parker Kligerman, racing the No. 78 GTD Lamborghini, notes that GT3 cars share similarities with NASCAR's next-gen vehicles. The increased number of road courses in NASCAR's calendar has made the Rolex 24 more valuable for stock car drivers' skill development.

The 2024 event features notable NASCAR representatives including:

• Shane van Gisbergen and Connor Zilisch in the No. 91 GTD PRO Chevrolet Corvette
• Austin Cindric in the Multimatic Ford Mustang
• Parker Kligerman in the No. 78 GTD Lamborghini

For young drivers like 18-year-old Connor Zilisch, who won the LMP2 class in 2023, the race provides valuable learning opportunities through data sharing and extended track time before the NASCAR season begins.

The increasing difficulty in securing entries for the Rolex 24 highlights its growing prestige. The presence of NASCAR drivers, alongside international talents, further elevates the event's status in global motorsport.

This crossover benefits both series, with drivers treating the race with utmost seriousness and commitment, proving it's far more than just an off-season exhibition event before the NASCAR season begins.

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