AJ Allmendinger has been officially confirmed as the first driver in Meyer Shank Racing’s Acura DPi line-up, rejoining the team as the fourth driver for the Rolex 24 at Daytona.
Allmendinger, who has spent the past three seasons racing GT3 machinery, will be one of four drivers contesting the Florida endurance classic aboard the #60 Acura ARX-05.
“More than anything, I am so pumped for Mike (Shank) and the team to become a factory Acura DPi team,” said Allmendinger. “No one deserves this more than Mike Shank. His hard work and dedication is paying off and I am happy to be a small part of that.”
The California native has fourteen starts at Daytona, all if which were contested with Shank’s outfit. Allmendinger made his debut in 2006 racing a Lexus-powered Riley Daytona Prototype, immediately finishing second overall. In 2012, he captured the overall victory with Oswaldo Negri, John Pew and the late Justin Wilson.
“That was probably one of the biggest moments in my career,” said Allmendinger. “Mike and MSR worked so hard to get that win, and to be a part of such a monumental victory in the team’s career is something that I will always cherish.”
After three further starts in prototypes, Allmendinger moved along with Shank to GTD in 2018 and finished second in class, pairing with Alvaro Parente, Trent Hindman and Katherine Legge in an Acura NSX GT3.
“I always feel so fortunate and lucky to have the opportunity to drive for my close friend Mike Shank and everyone at the Meyer Shank Racing team for my 15th attempt at the Rolex 24,” said Allmendinger. “I can’t wait to get back to Prototype racing. The DPi machines are very quick and look so fun to drive.
“I am sure it will take me a few laps to get used to the speed and downforce, but I’ll be surrounded by a great team and I know that I will get up to speed fairly quick. I can’t thank Mike, MSR and Honda HPD for allowed me to drive for them. Time to get another Rolex!”
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