Short Description
Philip Ellis shares his thrilling experience during the 2026 Rolex 24, highlighting a near-disastrous moment in the race that cemented Winward Racing’s victory.
Read Time
3 Minutes 45 Seconds
Main Article
In the high-octane world of endurance racing, moments of sheer adrenaline define a driver’s career. Philip Ellis recently recounted an intense incident during the 2026 Rolex 24, where a breathtaking 175mph slide nearly led to disaster. This heart-stopping clash with Nicki Thiim was not just a personal test for Ellis; it was a pivotal moment in the race that ultimately secured the GTD victory for Winward Racing.
The showdown between Ellis’s #57 Winward Mercedes-AMG and the #44 Magnus Racing Aston Martin heated up dramatically, as both drivers battled fiercely for the lead. With just ten minutes left in the race, the two cars collided at Daytona International Speedway’s fastest section. “It was definitely one of the wildest moments of my career,” Ellis reflected. Despite the risk, he was so immersed in the race that he didn’t fully appreciate the potential danger until later; it was only during the in-lap that he realized he was missing his rear-view mirror.
Ellis acknowledged that his decision-making during the encounter contributed to the tense moment. Attempting to execute a side draft when Thiim surged past, he miscalculated the timing and space available, leading to a warning from race control. “I didn’t realize he was already that close to the wall. So, that one is on me—especially at that speed, where the consequences can be massive,” Ellis stated. Fortunately, both drivers survived the incident without further mishap, demonstrating the exhilarating yet perilous nature of motorsport.
Despite the race’s competitive nature, Ellis expressed admiration for Thiim’s resilience, noting that he was surprised by the Dane’s ability to keep pace in the race’s final moments. As a three-time Rolex 24 winner, the stakes of the race only amplified Ellis’s focus. He emphasized the significance of hard racing and clean competition, saying, “I’m glad we sorted it out on track and not via penalties. That’s why we see record crowds every year. It’s what makes IMSA so special.”
This dramatic account serves as a reminder of the razor-thin margins in professional racing, where skill, quick thinking, and a touch of luck can lead to exhilarating moments that captivate fans around the world.
Short Summary
Philip Ellis’s thrilling encounter at the 2026 Rolex 24 showcases the high-stakes drama of endurance racing. His candid reflection on the nearly devastating clash with Nicki Thiim highlights the blend of skill and adrenaline that makes IMSA racing electrifying.
