DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — The 57th annual Rolex 24 roars into Daytona Beach this weekend, the first major event of the racing season.

The race got its namesake due to the watch company's sponsorship--and because it starts and ends in a 24-hour period.

Rolex 24 is the season opener for the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship.

This year, fans are buzzing about two-time Formula 1 champion driver Fernando Alonso’s return, as well as Italian driver and double amputee, Alex Zanardi, who is also competing.

During Thursday's race qualifications, event organizers said that #77 Mazda broke the track event qualifying record.

On Friday, drivers will get in some practice sessions and compete in the BMW Endurance Challenge, right before drivers take to the track on Saturday, with the actual race kicking off around 2:30 p.m. on the 3.56-mile combined tri-oval and road course.