Wurz Set for One-Off Finale in Rolex 24 Debut

Alexander Wurz’s first Rolex 24 at Daytona start, confirmed by way of Ford Chip Ganassi Racing releasing its lineup for its two Prototype class entries Tuesday morning, is set to be a one-off event only following his retirement from driving after the FIA World Endurance Championship season finale in Bahrain.

Wurz, 41, was set to retire from driving following the end of this year with Toyota Gazoo Racing and was subsequently named an ambassador and advisor for the team.

However, he hinted late last night that he had at least one surprise coming.

Hi there, tomorrow might bring a surprise… I am/was surprised too ?… I'll tell u more later…

— alex wurz (@alex_wurz) December 29, 2015

Upon being confirmed to the No. 01 Riley-Ford entry with fellow international aces Brendon Hartley and Andy Priaulx, and Canadian teenager Lance Stroll in the entry, Wurz will now have a shot at the one endurance race that for way of timing, he’s never been able to do in a 20-plus year career.

proud to have been asked to join @CGRTeams for the 24h of Daytona in January! A one-off race I always wanted to do and now have time to do.

— alex wurz (@alex_wurz) December 29, 2015

just in case u wonder, racing 24hDaytona is v cool, but not a comeback for full time racing seat. amazing team, great race, top opportunity

— alex wurz (@alex_wurz) December 29, 2015

The appointment gives Wurz a shot to add a Rolex 24 at Daytona overall win to three other marquee endurance race crowns he’s achieved in his career.

Wurz is a two-time overall winner at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, in 1996 and 2009. Additionally, he captured the overall wins at the 2010 Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring and 2011 Petit Le Mans.