Star pilot of the NASCAR Cup Series with Kaulig Racing, Allmendinger remains a familiar face in the paddock IMSAThe Californian will compete at Daytona at the end of January driving the No. 60 Acura ARX-06, which he will share with Colin Braun, Tom Blomqvist and Scott Dixon, in what looks to be one of the most experienced crews on the entire grid.

AJ Allmendinger and Michael Shank have a long history. The American driver competed in 15 editions of the Florida classic between 2006 and 2021 (excluding 2017), including an overall victory in 2012 alongside Justin Wilson, Ozz Negri, and John Pew. A pivotal success for a team then still considered an outsider. Mike is a true racer. He lives for this sport. " explains Allmendinger, who took the wheel of the No. 60 car during the November IMSA test at Daytona (pictured). He put everything on the line to help this team grow. »

Since its last appearance with MSR in 2021, much has changed. The Acura ARX-06 is more complex than the old DPi, and the team has made an impressive structural leap. This evolution has not escaped Allmendinger's notice: When I saw the new shop… wow. It's a far cry from the days when eight guys worked around the car. But it's great to see our photos, our history, on the walls again. »

A crew with rare experience

For his return, Allmendinger joins a quartet with exceptional experience. Scott Dixon will compete at Daytona for the 23rd consecutive year, a streak that began in 2004. Colin Braun isn't far behind with his 22nd appearance, while Tom Blomqvist boasts a near-perfect start to his Daytona career with two wins and two second-place finishes.

Between them, the four drivers of the #60 car have over 60 starts in the event, and all have already won overall at Daytona. Allmendinger is well aware of the pressure, as he is once again familiarizing himself with a latest-generation IMSA prototype.

« It's a true racing car, very demanding. “, he acknowledges. " There are so many things to manage, so many buttons, and you have to find your limit. I crossed it pretty quickly! My goal is simple: to do good stints and return the car undamaged. I don't want to be the one who makes the team lose. "A statement that Mike Shank was quick to dismiss: " That won't happen. You've never let us down. »

MSR in search of continuity in GTP

For Acura Meyer Shank Racing, this return is part of a broader strategy. After a year's absence, the team returned to IMSA's top category in 2025. It was an up-and-down season, but highlighted by a strong second-place finish at Daytona and a victory at the Six Hours of Watkins Glen.

« The second half of the season was very encouraging. " analyzes Colin Braun. We understood what needed improvement, and we finished the year with momentum. This time, we're truly entering a "real" second year of the program, with experience and a solid foundation. »

Braun had never shared a car with Allmendinger before, even though they had already raced under the same colors in 2009.
« He's a cool guy, a great driver, and he fits perfectly into our culture. It promises to be a good time. », he smiles.

The 2026 IMSA season will kick off with the traditional Roar, from January 16th to 18th, before the main event at Daytona from January 22nd to 25th. With Allmendinger back in the fold and a highly experienced driver lineup, Acura Meyer Shank Racing is clearly aiming for overall victory right from the opening round.

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