Alonso all set to 'ROAR' out of his comfort zone at Daytona

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Fernando Alonso will be back behind the wheel at the end of this week when he begins his formal preparation for the Daytona 24 Hours.

The McLaren driver joins Zak Brown's United Autosports outfit for the season-opening endurance classic, but like his fellow contenders the Spaniard will be running in the Roar Before the Rolex 24, a three-day test and dress rehearsal for teams and drivers scheduled this week at Daytona.

"It’s a true pleasure to go back racing in the States, in front of the US fans," said Alonso.

"In less than a year I will have competed in two legendary races, which makes me very proud.

"I have always wanted to challenge myself in other categories of motorsport, as this is what you need to become a better driver.

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"Going out of my comfort zone by taking part in such an iconic race as the Daytona 24 Hours is just amazing.

"I am looking forward to racing for United Autosports, the reigning European LMP3 champions."

Alonso sampled the team's Ligier JS P217 back in November during a day of testing at Motorland Aragon.

At Daytona, the two-time F1 world champion will race the #23 United Autosports car alongside McLaren junior Lando Norris and Phil Hanson.

"At the test we had in Spain in November, everyone made me feel extremely welcome and part of the family and I’m happy to be spending more time with the team and my team-mates in a few days, at the ROAR.

"I just cannot wait to jump in the car again and drive on the famous oval. In the last couple of months I have been spending time watching several Daytona 24 Hours, which made me even keener to go out there and try myself. It’s going to be fun."

United Autosports's second entry at Daytona will be handled by Bruno Senna, Paul di Resta, Will Owen and Hugo de Sadeleer.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.