Rast Completes Visit Florida Lineup for Daytona

Rene Rast has been named the third and final driver for Visit Florida Racing’s Prototype class effort in this month’s Rolex 24 at Daytona. Rast joins Marc Goossens and Renger van der Zande at the helm of the team’s new Gibson-powered Riley Mk. 30.

A two-time Rolex 24 race winner, the Audi Sport factory driver has competed in the previous five Rolex 24 At Daytona events in the GT categories.

While he steps up to the top Prototype division in IMSA competition, Rast has a deep reservoir of international LMP experience.

The German drove to a second place finish in last year’s 24 Hours of Le Mans in an LMP2 machine for G-Drive Racing. He drove full-time in the FIA World Endurance Championship for G-Drive in an LMP2 in 2016 and claimed a win at Bahrain and podium finishes at both Silverstone and Circuit of the Americas.

He is also a two-time winner of the 24 Hours of Spa, taking the victory in both 2012 and 2014 in an Audi R8 LMS. He also won the Nurburgring 24 driving the Audi in 2014.

“It is an amazing feeling to know that in a few days I will be back at Daytona,” Rast said. “The Rolex 24 is one of my favorite races during the year and I can’t wait for the action to begin. I have won the Rolex 24 now two times but not overall.

“My big dream was always to one day win it overall. Being part of a great team like Visit Florida Racing is a big honor and for sure it will bring a big smile to my face doing my first laps in their car.

“I followed the team over the past couple of years and always felt that they were one of the best teams, so I’m very proud to be part of this effort.”

Team Owner Troy Flis added:  “[Rene] is quick and has a lot of valuable experience for us to tap into as we get ready for our first race with this Riley LMP2. I think he’ll fit right in with Marc and Renger so we are excited to get going with our new car this week here at the Roar.”

All three drivers will be in action in this week’s Roar Before the 24 which takes place. The 55th annual Rolex 24 At Daytona is set for Jan. 28-29.