Rolex 24, Hour 18: Paul Miller Racing BMW Greets the Sun with GTD PRO Lead
As the 2025 Rolex 24 at Daytona enters its 18th hour, Paul Miller Racing’s BMW M4 GT3 has emerged at the front of the GTD PRO field, giving the team a promising position as the race moves into the final stages. With the rising sun illuminating the Daytona International Speedway, the iconic endurance race is set for an intense final stretch, and the BMW squad will be looking to capitalize on their strong performance overnight.
The Rising Sun Brings Hope for Paul Miller Racing
In the early morning hours, the track temperature began to cool, and strategy became crucial in the battle for supremacy. Paul Miller Racing’s No. 1 BMW M4 GT3, driven by Madison Snow, was able to take advantage of a well-timed pit stop and a string of consistent laps to move into the lead, with the car now sitting atop the GTD PRO standings.
At hour 18, Snow handed over to co-driver Bryan Sellers, who maintained the car’s competitive pace. The BMW has shown remarkable reliability, with the team expertly navigating the intense conditions that come with running through the night at Daytona. As the sun broke through the horizon, it marked not just a new day, but a new opportunity for the team to defend their lead in what is shaping up to be a tight contest in the GTD PRO class.
Competitive Field Behind Paul Miller Racing
Despite their impressive position, Paul Miller Racing faces fierce competition from other powerhouse teams in the GTD PRO category. The No. 79 WeatherTech Racing Mercedes-AMG GT3, piloted by Maro Engel, continues to put pressure on the BMW, just a few seconds behind in the standings. The Mercedes team, known for its speed and strategic prowess, is not backing down and will certainly be a contender as the race reaches its final hours.
Similarly, the No. 9 Pfaff Motorsports Porsche 911 GT3 R, with its famed red and black livery, has also been in the hunt throughout the night, currently in striking distance of the leading BMW. The team’s consistent performance and experienced driver lineup make them a dangerous threat as the race enters its crucial closing hours.
Overnight Drama: The Importance of Strategy
As the Rolex 24 at Daytona is known for its endurance and strategy, the overnight hours were full of pivotal moments. A couple of cautions during the night allowed teams to reset their strategies, with many taking the opportunity for fuel-saving stints. This played into the hands of Paul Miller Racing, who maintained a steady pace without making any major mistakes.
However, not every team was as fortunate. Some cars in the GTD PRO class faced minor mechanical issues or tire wear problems, leading to unscheduled pit stops and time lost on the track. These setbacks have already begun to narrow the gap between the leaders, and as the race moves into the final hours, those who can maintain consistency and avoid further issues will be in the best position to take home the win.
GTD PRO Field: Tight at the Top
The battle in GTD PRO is shaping up to be one of the most thrilling in recent memory. As the top cars continue to swap positions, with only seconds separating them, the drama is expected to escalate as the race nears its conclusion. The BMW of Paul Miller Racing, though currently leading, will need to fend off multiple threats, especially as the Mercedes-AMG and Porsche teams continue to press the advantage in the closing hours.
Meanwhile, the team’s pit crew has been exceptional, providing quick and efficient stops throughout the night. With each driver change, tire swap, and fuel fill, the crew has kept the car competitive and in a strong position to defend the lead as the race transitions into its final stretch.
Looking Ahead to the Final Hours
As Hour 18 draws to a close, the Rolex 24 at Daytona is far from decided. Paul Miller Racing’s BMW M4 GT3 has put itself in an excellent position, but with the relentless pressure from WeatherTech Racing, Pfaff Motorsports, and other competitors in the GTD PRO class, every lap counts.
With the sun now fully risen, the track conditions will continue to evolve, and the next few hours will be critical for the BMW team as they look to hold onto their lead. Strategy, consistency, and managing the car’s performance will be key to securing the win.
The Rolex 24 is one of the most grueling endurance races in the world, and as we enter the final hours, it’s clear that Paul Miller Racing’s BMW is in the fight for the long haul. The stage is set for an exhilarating finish — and it’s anyone’s race to win.
Conclusion
As the Rolex 24 enters its final stretch, Paul Miller Racing’s BMW M4 GT3 leads the way in the GTD PRO class, giving the team hope for a victory at one of the most prestigious endurance races in motorsport. But with fierce competition still breathing down their necks, they will need to keep their focus, strategy, and precision to hold off the relentless threats behind them. The final hours will surely be filled with drama, and it promises to be a thrilling conclusion to an unforgettable race.