DragonSpeed Locks In Cairoli to Finish Off Exciting Daytona Corvette Lineup
He’s one of the best GT drivers you might not have heard of, but Matteo Cairoli is a name that commands respect in every paddock he enters. Now, he’s bringing that formidable talent back to the high banks of Daytona, completing a powerhouse lineup for 10Star DragonSpeed in the legendary Rolex 24. This isn’t just another driver announcement; it’s a statement of intent. DragonSpeed is coming for the watch, and in Cairoli, they’ve found their closer.
The Italian ace, a proven winner on the world’s biggest stages, will strap into the brand-new No. 81 Corvette Z06 GT3.R. The move signals a significant shift for both team and driver. DragonSpeed, after a blistering campaign that nearly saw them clinch the GTD PRO title with Ferrari, is returning to the fiercely competitive GTD class with fresh American muscle.
For Cairoli, a driver who has spent much of his career piloting Porsches and Lamborghinis to victory, this is a new beast to tame. But if his track record is anything to go by, it won’t take him long to find its limits.
Team principal Elton Julian knows what he’s getting with Cairoli. “The addition of Matteo to our lineup signals exactly what we are aiming to do: surround Henrik with a rapid, powerful, and experienced lineup!” Julian’s words cut straight to the point. In endurance racing, you’re only as strong as your weakest link, and with this roster, there are no weak links.
Who is Matteo Cairoli?
For those not deeply entrenched in the global sports car scene, Cairoli is a bona fide star. He’s conquered the Green Hell, standing on the top step of the treacherous 24 Hours of Nürburgring. He’s a winner in the FIA World Endurance Championship, proving his mettle against the best factory-backed efforts on the planet. He’s the kind of driver you call when you want to win. Period.
His excitement is palpable. “I am glad to join the team for the Rolex 24 at Daytona in such a strong lineup,” Cairoli said. “I will give my very best to adapt to the car as quick as possible and would be cool to get a successful result in our first time together.” It’s that quiet confidence, that blend of humility and raw ambition, that makes him so dangerous behind the wheel. He’s not here for a joyride; he’s here to add one of motorsport’s most coveted trophies to his collection.
What Does Cairoli Bring to the Rolex 24?
Cairoli is no stranger to the unique challenges of Daytona. He has five previous starts under his belt, wrestling everything from Porsches to Lamborghinis around the 3.56-mile roval. While a victory has so far eluded him, that experience is invaluable. He knows the rhythm of the race, the ebb and flow of traffic, and the sheer grit required to survive 24 hours of flat-out battle.
He joins an already formidable crew. Full-season drivers Henrik Hedman and Giacomo Altoè provide a solid foundation, while IMSA Michelin Endurance Cup specialist Casper Stevenson adds another layer of speed and consistency. Together, they form a quartet that can challenge for the win from the moment the green flag drops.
Final Thoughts
The GTD class is arguably the most competitive in the entire IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, a shark tank filled with pro-am lineups and all-pro squads. DragonSpeed knows they need a crew that can go toe-to-toe with anyone, and with Cairoli, they have their ace. The mission is clear: get a Rolex on Hedman’s wrist, and with this lineup, they have their best shot yet.
