Veteran Drivers looking for return to Victory Lane

The annual three-day Roar Before the 24 occurred over the weekend in preparation for the 55th running of the Rolex 24 at Daytona. The No. 5 Mustang Sampling Cadillac driven by Portuguese speaking drivers of Christian Fittipaldi, João Barbosa, and Filipe Albuquerque are looking to once again stand atop the podium in Daytona.

"We are really pleased with the progress we have made in the short time we have with this new car. Every racer wants to take home trophies from Daytona so each team always brings their A game here," said team manager Gary Nelson. "Action Express with our six out of six championships in three years in the top division of road racing in America, plans to keep doing what we know best, compete for wins and championships."

The No. 5 Mustang Sampling team of drivers each have tasted victory during the twice around-the-clock endurance race, but all are eager for return trip to Victory Lane in the new Cadillac DPi-V.R

"We're going through the program and process of getting our cars ready for a 24-hour race. There were areas we expected less obstacles but that is part of the learning curve with a new car. Everyone in the garage is facing the same thing and it's not only us," said Fittipaldi.

"We're happy with the progress we gained and feel well-prepared for the 24 hours. We're not where we want to be compared to past year's, but I'm quietly confident of what we can do here at the end of January."

Action Express Racing is in pursuit of a third overall victory in the Rolex 24 at Daytona.

João Barbosa

The three-time and co-defending IMSA Tequila Patron' North American Endrance Cup Champion, João Barbosa returns to Action Express Racing to drive the familiar #5 yellow, black and white Mustang Sampling Cadillac DPi-V.R seeking his third IMSA WeatherTech Championship at the pinnacle of North American sports car competition. João resides in Ormond Beach, FL with his wife and two sons. He is an avid runner and cyclist.

Christian Fittipaldi

Two-time IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Champion driver Christian Fittipaldi returns to Action Express Racing for his fifth full season of competition following a third consecutive Tequila Patron' North American Endurance Cup Championship with co-driver João Barbosa. Outside of sports car racing, the Brazilian satiates his need for competition by racing in mountain bike and karting events, both in the U.S. and his home country of Brazil.

Contact:

justin.garner@octagon.com

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