Rolex 24 at Daytona: Top-10 Finishes for Lexus Racing and Vasser Sullivan

Lexus Racing and Vasser Sullivan opened the 2026 endurance season with determination and resilience at the legendary Rolex 24 at Daytona, earning two top-10 finishes at Daytona International Speedway. After 24 grueling hours of competition, the No. 12 Lexus RC F GT3 finished ninth in the GTD class, while the No. 14 RC F GT3 secured 10th in the highly competitive GTD PRO category.

Starting 14th in class, the No. 12 team, featuring Benjamin Pedersen, Frankie Montecalvo, Aaron Telitz, and IMSA debut driver Esteban Masson, navigated early cautions, strategic pit cycles, and changing track conditions to steadily move up the order.

The team climbed into the top five late Saturday night and even led laps during the race. A lengthy caution period of more than six hours due to poor visibility reshaped strategies across the field, but the Lexus team remained composed and consistent. Telitz drove the final 90 minutes, bringing the No. 12 machine home in ninth place and earning valuable championship points.

The No. 14 Lexus, piloted by Jack Hawksworth, Kyle Kirkwood, and Ben Barnicoat, demonstrated preparation and teamwork throughout the twice-around-the-clock event. The trio executed clean, consistent stints and even led a lap during the extended caution period as competitors cycled through pit stops.

Despite a late-race repair and drive-through penalty that cost valuable track position, the team capitalized on others’ missteps to secure a 10th-place finish in GTD PRO—an impressive result in one of the most competitive classes in endurance racing.

Drivers praised the team’s flawless execution and preparation, noting that endurance racing demands both speed and resilience. Even when pace challenges arise, consistency and teamwork can define a successful weekend.

With Daytona complete, Lexus and Vasser Sullivan now turn their attention to the iconic Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring at Sebring International Raceway on March 21. Strong early-season points and valuable experience from Daytona position the team well as they continue their championship pursuit.

We invite you to visit Lexus of Northborough to experience Lexus performance firsthand, and follow Lexus Racing on social media using #LexusPerformance to stay connected all season long.