Zenith Racing Series Introduces ZP1 and ZR1 Classes for Daytona Exhibition Event in 2026 season
New prototype and GT categories will debut in a non-points, dual three-hour weekend at Daytona International Speedway
DAYTONA BEACH, FL. Zenith Racing Series will introduce two new classes this fall with the launch of ZP1 and ZR1, expanding the range of cars eligible to compete within the series and creating a new destination for prototype and GT platforms looking for endurance racing opportunities.
The classes will debut at Daytona International Speedway as part of a non-points exhibition weekend featuring a dual three-hour race format, with one three-hour race on Saturday and a second three-hour race on Sunday. The event is designed to give new competitors a clear first look at Zenith’s format while providing meaningful track time at one of the most recognizable venues in motorsports. It also gives the rest of the paddock an outlook for what the 2027 season holds as ZP1 and ZR1 will be joining the full calendar in 2027.
Zenith Racing Series was created to offer a fresh endurance racing platform built around balanced performance, efficient event weekends, and a paddock experience that prioritizes the competitor. The series focuses on giving a wide range of eligible cars a place to compete without forcing every platform into a narrow class structure.
ZP1 will serve as Zenith’s premier prototype category, creating a home for cars such as the Sebeco Velox, LMP3 machinery, Revolutions, and similar prototype platforms. ZR1 will give high-level GT cars a dedicated place within the Zenith paddock, offering a path for closed-wheel cars that sit above traditional production-based categories. ZR1 power to weight will also be intentionally classed for cars such as the BMW M4 GT4, Toyota GR Supra GT4, and other GT style cars running in a higher horsepower trim.
Together, ZP1 and ZR1 reflect the continued growth of Zenith as an endurance racing platform. By creating dedicated categories for premier prototypes and upper-level GT cars, Zenith is expanding the range of teams and vehicles that can compete while adding more speed, variety, and depth to the on-track product.
Zenith has received strong demand for a place where these cars can go endurance racing in an environment that is competitive, enjoyable, and well structured. The series’ open ruleset and strategic partnerships have helped shape a platform where high-level machinery can compete in a format that works for the cars, the teams, and the people supporting them.
Both classes are built around Zenith’s power-to-weight philosophy. The goal is to create a practical path for different platforms to share the track in a balanced way, while keeping the rulebook approachable for competitors evaluating whether their car fits. Rather than building classes around one specific make or chassis, Zenith is focused on creating categories where performance can be managed cleanly and the racing product can continue to grow.
“ZP1 and ZR1 are a natural next step for Zenith,” said Emma Adams, Series Manager, Zenith Racing Series. “There are a lot of great programs that need more opportunities to endurance race. Daytona gives us the right setting to introduce these classes, welcome new people into the paddock, and show what this platform can become.”
The Daytona weekend will include practice, qualifying, two three-hour races, and additional test time. As a non-points exhibition round, the event gives competitors an opportunity to experience Zenith without the pressure of a championship weekend. It also gives the series a chance to evaluate the new classes in a real race environment while gathering feedback from the paddock.
For teams and drivers interested in Zenith, the format creates a straightforward entry point. The weekend offers track time to learn the series, evaluate performance, and understand how ZP1 and ZR1 could fit into future competition plans.
Zenith Racing Series is encouraging interested competitors to reach out directly to discuss class eligibility, event format, and registration for Daytona.
Media / Competitor Contact
Emma Adams
Series Manger
emma@zenithracingseries.com