Cover The green flag waves to start the 2025 Rolex 24 at Daytona
The green flag waves to start the 2025 Rolex 24 at Daytona
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As the Rolex 24 roared to its 63rd edition, a legacy of endurance, precision, and racing excellence continued—culminating in the ultimate prize, the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona
Earlier this year, one of the most prestigious and challenging motorsports races concluded its 63rd iteration with a roaring success. For more than three decades, thousands of drivers from all corners of racing have descended upon Daytona International Speedway, lured by chance to conquer one of motorsport’s most gruelling tests: the Rolex 24.
But standing on the podium’s top step earns the best drivers more than bragging rights or having their name etched in history. It also comes with the most coveted and wearable prize in racing: the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona.
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Rolex Clock in the infield at the 2025 Rolex 24 At Daytona
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This January, as the green flag waved across Daytona International Speedway, it marked not just the start of another race, but the continuation of a rich heritage that connects luxury watchmaking with the unforgiving pursuit of racing excellence.
When Jamie Chadwick, the three-time W Series champion and Rolex Testimonee, stepped onto the podium as Grand Marshal, her presence signalled more than a ceremonial gesture. At 26, Chadwick—poised to compete in the 2025 European Le Mans Series—embodies the evolving narrative of motorsport: one where skill eclipses stereotypes, and inclusivity fuels competition.
Above Rolex Testimonee and 2025 Rolex 24 At Daytona Grand Marshall Jamie Chadwick
Above Rolex Testimonee Tom Kristensen
Rolex Testimonee and 2025 Rolex 24 At Daytona Grand Marshall Jamie Chadwick
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Her command, “Drivers, start your engines,” resonated beyond the grid, echoing the aspirations of a generation redefining what it means to belong in racing. “To witness this race firsthand,” she later remarked, “is to understand that excellence isn’t given—it’s earned.”
“I’ve followed the Rolex 24 for many years, so to witness the race firsthand as Grand Marshal is something I will remember forever,” Chadwick remarked after the event. “It has been impressive to see how tough this race is, from the challenging circuit to the steep banking and the many hours of darkness.”
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Above Fireworks light up the sky above infield racing action during the 2025 Rolex 24 at Daytona
Fireworks light up the sky above infield racing action during the 2025 Rolex 24 at Daytona
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The 2025 edition proved particularly noteworthy as the #7 Porsche Penske Motorsport team secured victory for the second consecutive year in their Porsche 963, marking the 20th win at Daytona for the German manufacturer. Through bitterly cold night conditions, high winds, and the physical demands of a 24-hour contest, the winning team completed an astonishing 781 laps on the 5.73-kilometer tri-oval track.
Above The #7 Porsche Penske Motorsports team celebrates after winning the 2025 Rolex 24 at Daytona
The #7 Porsche Penske Motorsports team celebrates after winning the 2025 Rolex 24 at Daytona
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This year’s race was a study in contrasts: 61 cars, from the thunderous Porsche 963s to the sleek Cadillac V-Series.Rs, battled not just each other, but the elements. Bitter cold, gusting winds, and the psychological toll of racing through darkness tested teams in ways that no simulation could replicate. Yet, as dawn broke, the #7 Porsche Penske Motorsport emerged victorious for the second consecutive year—a feat that speaks to engineering brilliance and the unspoken camaraderie of pit crews, engineers, and drivers who operate as a single organism for 24 relentless hours.
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Above The engraved Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona presented to the winner of the 2025 Rolex 24 at Daytona
The engraved Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona presented to the winner of the 2025 Rolex 24 at Daytona
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The connection between Rolex and Daytona runs deeper than sponsorship. It’s a relationship forged in the 1930s when Sir Malcolm Campbell set several World Land Speed Records on Daytona Beach with a Rolex Oyster on his wrist. That partnership laid the foundation for what would become one of the most authentic connections between a luxury brand and sporting excellence.
This year’s race coincided with what would have been Paul Newman’s 100th birthday—a fitting tribute to the Oscar-winning actor and racing driver who won in his class at the 1995 edition at age 70, becoming the oldest driver at that time to win a sanctioned race. Newman’s association with the Daytona timepiece has become the stuff of horological legend.
Credits
Images: Rolex
Sim Wie Boon is the general manager of Tatler Malaysia. Previously the print and digital editor, Sim hails from the land of the hornbills, Sarawak. Sim is now based in Kuala Lumpur and brings more than a decade of experience in the media industry as a journalist and broadcast producer.
As a self-proclaimed geriatric millennial, he appreciates the finer things in life, from savouring a sip of single malt whisky to relishing in the deliciousness of char siew. While reminiscing about the indie-sleaze era, Sim now finds solace in the soothing tunes of ambient music, staying active through running and occasionally succumbing to the addictive world of doom scrolling.
Follow him on Instagram or Threads at @simwb
