Team Owner Shank Defends Allmendinger

Michael Shank

Grand Am Rolex Sports Car Series team owner Michael Shank spoke out in defense of suspended NASCAR driver AJ Allmendinger today, saying he will stand behind his driver and business partner while he works to determine what caused his recent failed NASCAR substance abuse test.

“First and foremost, AJ Allmendinger is a friend of mine, actually more like a brother,” said Shank. “I stand 100% behind him in this challenging time. He has stood behind me and been loyal to my team for seven years. Even when we let him down, he never considered bailing on me and my team. I will certainly never leave him behind when tough times come for him.”

Allmendinger has driven Shank’s No. 60 Daytona Prototype in the Rolex 24 at Daytona in recent seasons. In January, he teamed with Grand Am veterans Oswaldo Negri and John Pew and IndyCar driver Justin Wilson to win the 50th anniversary edition of the road racing classic.

“No matter what happens, he will stay my friend and continue to drive for me whenever possible,” said Shank. “AJ (is) part of our family here at MSR, for what I hope is many years to come. I think everyone is looking forward to seeing him back on track, fast.”