It’s time for NASCAR drivers to hit the iconic Daytona tracks once more. And this time, for the Rolex 24. The iconic drive, scheduled for January 25th and 26th, has drivers gearing up. One veteran who is all set to hit the tracks this time and fulfill his long-standing dream is the Xfinity driver Parker Kligerman. 

Even though he recently stepped away from full-time driving, Rolex 24 is an event that most drivers cannot say no to. This drive is the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship’s season-opening endurance race. The Connecticut native is all set to hit the tracks, but before that, he shares about the most important equipment. 

With racing 24 hours, coffee becomes a necessity 

The roar of engines, the smell of burning rubber, and the sheer adrenaline of speed—welcome to the legendary Rolex 24 at Daytona. This iconic endurance race is held on the Sports Car Course layout. This one is a 3.56-mile (5.73 km) masterpiece that combines the high-speed tri-oval with a challenging infield road course. The race is a test for both man and machine. It pushes the drivers to challenge absolute limits and expands over 24 grueling hours.

This time, it will be Parker Kligerman who will take over the tracks and drive towards success. The NASCAR driver is set to take the wheel of the #78 Lamborghini Huracan GT3 EVO2. It transpired because of a partnership between Forte Racing and Big Machine Racing. However, given the tenure of the race, it is not an easy job to stay focused. Well, any guesses that help the team going?

Sharing what the team does and the number one requirement for the race, Kligerman said, “What I learned is that Italians really, really love their coffee and are very particular about their coffee. And I did try it was incredible coffee. I did hear a funny story, where at one point last season that thing broke you know and about six or eight of the guys would be working in a car and we’re all working on the coffee machine”. 

For the teams preparing for the drive, coffee becomes an obvious choice as it allows the drivers and the crew to stay focused. Preparing for the 24-hour-long race is equally exhilarating. Drivers have often spoken about how hard it can be to fight both opponents and fatigue, which becomes a by-product of long hours of racing. 

Recently, Sandy Mitchell, an endurance driver for Forte Racing, shared his bits on how drivers prepare for the Rolex 24. He said, “The physical training can be a bit different in the offseason if you know you’re going into quite a full-on season with endurance racing. But a big part of endurance racing is the kind of mental switch. You still have to get your elbows out and be aggressive on all those restarts, but equally, it’s about keeping the car in one piece”.

Usually, before the green flag drops on an endurance race, teams rely on in-depth planning. They end up crafting a timeline, ensuring each driver knows their role and when they will be behind the wheel.

Parker Kligerman to get back to NASCAR in the booths

Trending

1

Shell-Shocked Dale Earnhardt Jr Explores 50-Year Old Unsolved Mysteries of His Dad’s Daytona Legacy

2

Kelley Earnhardt Reveals Dale Jr.’s Irresponsible Yet Heartfelt Gesture, Upsetting JRM Financials

3

Roger Penske’s Plan to Overtake NASCAR Revealed by Latest F1 Hire

4

Iconic Rock Band’s $65 Million Reality Check Bursts Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s ‘Hate’ Bubble

5

Shutting Down of Nearly $100 Billion Worth Company Has Bubba Wallace’s Wife in Shambles

It was in 2024 that Parker Kligerman first announced his formal exit from the world of full-time racing. However, announcements came in about how they would be venturing out of his racing experience and now joining CW Network as an integral part of the NASCAR Xfinity Series commentary team. He will be seen along with veteran drivers like Adam Alexander. Joining the booth, one can also spot Jamie McMurray, who has his fair share of experience as a former Cup Series driver. 

Parker Kligerman has been candid about the new opportunity that has come his way. Speaking of the same, he said, “I’m super flattered that it’s come together. I didn’t foresee this possibility five years ago—ever thinking I’d have a chance to be in the booth at this capacity. To be with The CW and Adam Alexander, one of the best in the business, is incredible”. 

This opportunity seems well deserved, as Kligerman is more than just an experienced driver. He has years of experience as an NBC sports analyst and a pit reporter. His addition to the booth will bring a new perspective and make fans witness their favorite NASCAR drivers once again.