Fernando Alonso's first foray into endurance racing just got that much easier. Jeff Gordon said that he won't be returning to the Rolex 24 at Daytona to defend his title, according to Racer.com.
Since retiring from full time driving in NASCAR in 2015, Gordon could usually be found in the broadcast booth for Fox, but last year, the chance to improve his third place finish at the 24 hour race in 2005 was enough to get him back on the track at Daytona. After winning, that pull isn't as strong.
"I mean, who doesn't want to go out on top!" Gordon said. "I plan on watching the event - not competing in it. I'll be pulling for Jordan Taylor and Wayne Taylor Racing, and I'm excited to see how Ricky does with Penske's new team."
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Winning with Wayne Taylor Racing last year apparently was enough for the four-time NASCAR champion. We can't blame him, 24 hours is a long race.