Due to shipping logistical problems the 24 Hours of Dubai will be postponed. The decision was fueled by the large number of cars that would not arrive in Dubai on time for the event that was originally scheduled for January 13-15th 2024. The date has been pushed to January 27th and 28th which will be in direct conflict with the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship season opener, the Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona; one of the most prestigious racing events of the year.
Ultimately teams who had planned to enter both races will have to make some tough decisions in terms of what is possible regarding staffing and car entries. Considering the races are on complete opposite sides of the world we imagine the decision to reschedule the 24 Hours of Dubai on a competing weekend will negatively impact the event.
The source of the delay is reported to be due to attacks on shipment vessels by Iranian raiders in the Red Sea. The attacks are said to be related to the Israel-Gaza war that has recently flared up in intensity. With no end to that conflict in site it may be difficult to justify forgoing the Rolex 24 which has no issues in terms of access. It is yet to be determined the full impact of this delay. We will report back when more information is available. As of now the Heart of Racing Team is the only team that has confirmed entry into both the 24 Hours of Dubai and Rolex 24.