The Michael Shank Racing team won the Daytona 24 with NASCAR driver AJ Allmendinger piloting the final stint.

Allmendinger was joined by IndyCar Series driver Justin Wilson plus Ozz Negri Jr. and John Pew in the No.60 car to give the previously unheralded team the biggest win in their history in the opening race of the Grand-Am Rolex series.

Shank also had a second team that finished third with Ryan Dalziel at the wheel of the second-placed Starworks Motorsports' car - also a Ford - when the chequered flag was shown after the 50th running of the 24-hour race.

It is the first time since 1966 that Ford have swept the podium in the race, and its first overall victory since 1999. It has taken four in total, also triumphing in 1997.

"I am just grateful," said Shank after watching the amazing performance of his team. "I always feel like I have to prove myself, because I came from nothing.

"I've had great relationships with people like Ozz Negri and John Pew that have taken our business to another level."

Allmendinger said: "That Ford motor was the best, most powerful engine I've ever had... the engine pulled like no other I've ever had. It was great."

Each of the three Ford teams on the podium led at least one lap.

"A gruelling 24-hour race is a culmination of team work, perseverance and flawless execution, and that came at the hands of all 12 of our Ford drivers," said Ford Racing director Jamie Allison.

The two Chip Ganassi Racing teams were expected to challenge but had to settle for fourth and sixth after both cars had mechanical issues.

Eurosport