Monterey Motorsports Reunion Authenticity Check

The much-coveted invitations to compete at the 2025 Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca on 13-16 August have been sent to owners of 448 exceptional race cars, the diversity of which ranges from a 1909 Locomobile Model I to a 2011 Ferrari 458 Italia Grand Am.  They will be competing in 14 grids or “run groups”, each with two or more races.

An all-volunteer committee of motorsport historians evaluates each application to ensure the cars meet the standards of authenticity and accurate period specification that has continued to be a cornerstone of the event since it was founded by Steve Earl back in 1974.

This year, to underline  its goal of upholding  “the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion as the premier showcase for authentic, original, period-correct cars,” the council has addressed a letter to entrants in which it cites the growing concern worldwide about the overdevelopment of historic racing cars.  The letter refers to the push for faster lap times that has led to an “arms race” of modifications, which undermines the integrity of historic competition.

“When cars equipped with modern, non-period components appear at the Rolex Reunion, they compromise the very principles upon which the event was founded,”  the letter stated.  “This not only creates an unfair advantage, but it also diminishes the experience for competitors who adhere to period-correct specifications.”

To further ensure compliance, the letter informs competitors that after the required technical and safety checks that each car must undergo, there will be random eligibility checks throughout the event week.  “These inspections will be conducted by group experts who will focus on non-period-correct modifications or components, which may include engine capacity, gearbox, brakes, shocks, suspension, wheels and tyres, and car weight.”  The letter goes on to say,  “Cars that do not pass this eligibility inspection may still be permitted to participate, provided the owner or preparer commits to making the necessary corrections before 2026,”

“Maintaining these standards will ensure the Rolex Reunion remains one of the world’s most prestigious racing events – a place where motorsports heritage is celebrated in its purest form.”

This year’s event promises a host of highlights and special features including the 75th Anniversary Celebration of Formula 1 and a new event to feature the revival of the International Race of Champions.   After a test run last year at Lime Rock, the IROC race will reunite many of the series’ legendary original drivers, such as Jeff Gordon, Mark Martin, Danny Sullivan, Bill Elliott, Scott Pruett, Ken Schrader, and Bobby Labonte.  Special guest Al Unser Jr. will represent the Unser family as the honorary pace car driver.