Wilson signs with Shank team for Rolex 24

Justin Wilson

Dreyer & Reinbold Racing driver Justin Wilson will join Michael Shank Racing's third Daytona Prototype entry for the 49th running of the Rolex 24 At Daytona January 29-30.

On Friday, team owner Mike Shank announced the driver line up for the third entry, with the No. 6 Continental Tire Flip 4 Four Michael Shank Racing with Curb/Agajanian Ford-Dallara being driven by three top talents as NASCAR Sprint Cup pilots AJ Allmendinger and Michael McDowell are joined by Wilson to share the driving duties in the No. 6 Continental Tire Flip 4 Four Michael Shank Racing with Curb/Agajanian Ford-Dallara in the 49th running of North America's greatest sports car challenge.

The 2011 Rolex 24 At Daytona campaign will mark Wilson's fourth attempt in the classic event. In 2006, he shared a best result of second place with Allmendinger. He will look to improve his own personal best, having twice run to the checkered flag in the overall runner-up position.

"This is just one of those races that you want to win, and for me, having been so close before, I am especially motivated to get to the top this year," said Wilson. "I think racing for Mike (Shank) with this driver line-up is a great opportunity to do exactly that. Michael Shank Racing has always been strong in this race, and I think we've got an excellent opportunity for a good result again this year. Having known Michael and AJ for so long will only help as we're all on the same page and just get down to Daytona and get to work. Starting the racing season off with loads of laps in such a challenging race is a perfect way to kick off the year, and I'm very pleased to be back again with such a strong program."

Wilson will take part in testing this week for the Rolex 24 At Daytona. He will then head to Indianapolis for the annual IZOD IndyCar winter meetings as well as meet with Dreyer & Reinbold Racing to prepare for the upcoming season.