Hey there, racing fans! Get your engines revving because the 2024 sports car racing season is shaping up to be an absolute thriller. From the roar of the engines to the nail-biting finishes, this year promises a spectacle you won't want to miss. So, buckle up as we dive into the essential dates and locations for the premier sports car racing events of 2024. Whether you're a seasoned motorsport enthusiast or a newbie eager to experience the adrenaline rush, this guide will keep you in the loop.

IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship

The IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship stands as a hallmark of endurance racing, showcasing cutting-edge technology and unparalleled driver skill. This championship features a diverse range of classes, including GTP, LMP2, GTD Pro, and GTD, each offering its unique flavor of competition. The 2024 season promises to be an epic journey across iconic North American circuits, and here’s what you need to know.

Rolex 24 at Daytona

Dates: January 27-28

Location: Daytona International Speedway, Daytona Beach, Florida

The Rolex 24 at Daytona is the crown jewel of the IMSA calendar, a grueling 24-hour endurance race that tests the limits of both machine and man. Held at the legendary Daytona International Speedway, this event kicks off the season with a bang. Expect non-stop action as teams battle it out through day and night, navigating the high-banked oval and challenging infield road course. With its rich history and unpredictable nature, the Rolex 24 is a must-see for any racing aficionado.

Sebring 12 Hours

Dates: March 13-16

Location: Sebring International Raceway, Sebring, Florida

Next up is the Sebring 12 Hours, another classic endurance race that pushes teams to their breaking point. Sebring International Raceway is renowned for its bumpy, unforgiving surface, making it one of the toughest tests in sports car racing. This race demands precision, reliability, and strategic brilliance. The Sebring 12 Hours is a true test of endurance, separating the contenders from the pretenders. Expect dramatic twists and turns as teams navigate the challenging conditions of this historic track.

Long Beach Grand Prix

Dates: April 19-20

Location: Long Beach Street Circuit, Long Beach, California

Switching gears from endurance to sprint racing, the Long Beach Grand Prix offers high-octane action on the streets of Long Beach. This temporary street circuit is known for its tight corners and limited overtaking opportunities, making qualifying crucial. The atmosphere is electric as fans line the streets to witness some of the most intense racing of the season. The Long Beach Grand Prix is a highlight on the IMSA calendar, blending the thrill of motorsport with the vibrant backdrop of Southern California.

WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca

Dates: May 10-12

Location: WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, Monterey, California

WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca is a track steeped in history, famous for its iconic Corkscrew corner. This undulating circuit challenges drivers with its elevation changes and technical layout. The picturesque scenery adds to the allure, making it a favorite among fans and competitors alike. The races at Laguna Seca are always thrilling, with drivers pushing their cars to the limit in pursuit of victory. Don't miss the chance to witness the action unfold at this legendary venue.

Watkins Glen 6 Hours

Dates: June 20-23

Location: Watkins Glen International, Watkins Glen, New York

Known as "The Glen," Watkins Glen International is a high-speed circuit that rewards bravery and precision. The Watkins Glen 6 Hours is a crucial race in the IMSA calendar, offering valuable points towards the championship. This race tests teams with its long straights and challenging corners, demanding a perfect balance of speed and strategy. With its rich racing heritage, Watkins Glen is a must-visit for any motorsport enthusiast. The atmosphere is electric as fans gather to witness the spectacle of sports car racing at its finest.

Canadian Tire Motorsport Park

Dates: July 12-14

Location: Canadian Tire Motorsport Park, Bowmanville, Ontario, Canada

Heading north of the border, Canadian Tire Motorsport Park, also known as Mosport, is a fast and flowing circuit that rewards daring drivers. The track's layout encourages close racing, with plenty of overtaking opportunities. The IMSA race at Mosport is always a highlight, attracting fans from both Canada and the United States. Expect thrilling battles and dramatic moments as teams fight for supremacy on this challenging circuit. The scenic backdrop adds to the allure, making it a memorable event for all who attend.

Road America

Dates: August 2-4

Location: Road America, Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin

Road America is a high-speed, four-mile-long circuit that tests the limits of both car and driver. Known for its long straights and challenging corners, this track demands a perfect setup and nerves of steel. The IMSA race at Road America is a highlight of the summer, attracting thousands of fans to the picturesque Wisconsin countryside. Expect thrilling racing and dramatic moments as teams battle for victory on this iconic circuit. The atmosphere is electric as fans gather to witness the spectacle of sports car racing at its finest.

Indianapolis Motor Speedway

Dates: September 20-22

Location: Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Indianapolis, Indiana

Racing at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway is always special, and the IMSA race is no exception. This historic venue is steeped in tradition, and the challenge of taming the Brickyard is one that every driver relishes. The IMSA event at Indianapolis combines the oval and road course, creating a unique and demanding challenge. Expect thrilling racing and a sense of history as teams battle for victory at this iconic venue. The atmosphere is electric as fans gather to witness the spectacle of sports car racing at the Racing Capital of the World.

Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta

Dates: October 9-12

Location: Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta, Braselton, Georgia

The season concludes with the Petit Le Mans at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta, a ten-hour endurance race that is sure to provide plenty of drama. This challenging circuit is known for its fast corners and undulating layout, making it a favorite among drivers. The Petit Le Mans is a fitting end to the IMSA season, with teams pushing their cars to the limit in pursuit of victory. Expect thrilling racing and a memorable spectacle as the championship is decided at this iconic venue.

FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC)

The FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) is a global series that features some of the most prestigious endurance races in the world. With its Hypercar, LMP2, and LMGT3 classes, the WEC offers a diverse and exciting spectacle for fans around the globe. The 2024 season promises to be a thrilling journey to iconic circuits, showcasing cutting-edge technology and unparalleled driver skill.

Qatar 1812 km

Dates: March 2

Location: Lusail International Circuit, Qatar

The Qatar 1812 km marked the start of the 2024 WEC season at the Lusail International Circuit. This race provided a challenging start to the year, testing teams and drivers with its demanding conditions and strategic complexities. The race distance, named in honor of Qatar National Day (December 18), added a unique touch to the event, blending motorsport with cultural significance.

6 Hours of Imola

Dates: April 21

Location: Imola, Italy

The 6 Hours of Imola at the Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari is a highlight of the European leg of the WEC calendar. Imola, with its rich history and challenging layout, provides a stern test for both cars and drivers. The race is known for its unpredictable weather and strategic complexities, often leading to dramatic moments and unexpected results. Fans can expect a thrilling race filled with close battles and intense competition.

6 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps

Dates: May 11

Location: Spa-Francorchamps, Belgium

Spa-Francorchamps is one of the most iconic circuits in the world, and the 6 Hours of Spa is a must-see event on the WEC calendar. This track is known for its challenging corners, high speeds, and unpredictable weather. The race often features dramatic moments and unexpected results, making it a favorite among fans. Expect thrilling racing and a memorable spectacle as teams battle for victory at this legendary venue.

24 Hours of Le Mans

Dates: June 15-16

Location: Le Mans, France

The 24 Hours of Le Mans is the crown jewel of the WEC season, a legendary race that tests the limits of both machine and man. This event is steeped in history and tradition, attracting teams and drivers from around the world. The 24 Hours of Le Mans is a true test of endurance, demanding precision, reliability, and strategic brilliance. Expect dramatic twists and turns as teams navigate the challenges of this iconic circuit. The atmosphere is electric as fans gather to witness the spectacle of sports car racing at its finest.

6 Hours of São Paulo

Dates: July 14

Location: São Paulo, Brazil

The 6 Hours of São Paulo brings the WEC action to South America, with a challenging race at the Interlagos circuit. This track is known for its undulating layout and unpredictable weather, providing a unique test for teams and drivers. The race is always a highlight of the season, attracting passionate fans and delivering thrilling racing. Expect close battles and dramatic moments as teams fight for supremacy on this iconic circuit.

Lone Star Le Mans (Austin)

Dates: September 1

Location: Austin, Texas, USA

The Lone Star Le Mans at the Circuit of the Americas (COTA) brings the WEC back to North America. COTA is a modern circuit with a challenging layout, testing drivers with its combination of high-speed corners and technical sections. The race is a highlight of the season, attracting fans from across the United States. Expect thrilling racing and a memorable spectacle as teams battle for victory at this world-class venue.

6 Hours of Fuji

Dates: September 29

Location: Fuji Speedway, Japan

The 6 Hours of Fuji is a key event in the WEC calendar, held at the iconic Fuji Speedway. This track is known for its long straight and challenging corners, providing a unique test for teams and drivers. The race is a highlight of the season, attracting passionate fans and delivering thrilling racing. Expect close battles and dramatic moments as teams fight for supremacy on this legendary circuit.

8 Hours of Bahrain

Dates: November 2

Location: Bahrain International Circuit, Bahrain

The season concludes with the 8 Hours of Bahrain, a challenging race held under the lights at the Bahrain International Circuit. This track is known for its demanding layout and hot conditions, testing teams and drivers to their limits. The race is a fitting end to the WEC season, with teams pushing their cars to the limit in pursuit of victory. Expect thrilling racing and a memorable spectacle as the championship is decided at this iconic venue.

Other Notable Races

Beyond IMSA and WEC, several other sports car races deserve a spot on your radar. These events offer their unique blend of competition and excitement, contributing to the vibrant landscape of sports car racing.

Nürburgring 24 Hours

Dates: May 30 - June 2

Location: Nürburgring, Germany

Known as the "Green Hell," the Nürburgring 24 Hours is an endurance race like no other. Held on the daunting Nordschleife circuit, this event tests teams and drivers with its challenging layout and unpredictable conditions. The Nürburgring 24 Hours is a true test of endurance, demanding precision, reliability, and strategic brilliance. Expect dramatic twists and turns as teams navigate the challenges of this iconic circuit. The atmosphere is electric as fans gather to witness the spectacle of sports car racing at its finest.

Spa 24 Hours

Dates: June 26 - June 30

Location: Spa-Francorchamps, Belgium

In addition to the WEC race, Spa-Francorchamps also hosts the Spa 24 Hours, another prestigious endurance race. This event attracts teams from around the world, competing in a variety of classes. The Spa 24 Hours is a true test of endurance, demanding precision, reliability, and strategic brilliance. Expect dramatic twists and turns as teams navigate the challenges of this iconic circuit. The atmosphere is electric as fans gather to witness the spectacle of sports car racing at its finest.

Conclusion

The 2024 sports car racing season promises to be an unforgettable year, filled with thrilling races, dramatic moments, and unparalleled competition. From the Rolex 24 at Daytona to the 8 Hours of Bahrain, there's something for every racing fan to enjoy. So, mark your calendars, book your tickets, and get ready to experience the adrenaline rush of sports car racing at its finest. Whether you're a seasoned motorsport enthusiast or a newbie eager to dive into the world of racing, 2024 is the perfect year to witness the spectacle of sports car racing.