Marco to emulate Mario at Sebring

Andretti will follow in the footsteps of his famous grandfather Mario, who won the event three times between 1967 and 1972, and he joins fellow former IndyCar race winners Bryan Herta and Christian Fittipaldi in the car and team that won the LMP2 class at their first attempt at Sebring last year.

"I'm really looking forward to getting into the Acura," he said. "I've had a chance to drive the car in a couple of tests and I've been very happy with it. The car has been really quick, fun to drive and has been incredibly durable.

"I'm just excited to be driving with Bryan [Herta] and Christian [Fittipaldi]," he added.

"I think I'll be able to contribute and, hopefully, run up front. My grandfather has won three times at Sebring and I hope to add my name to that list."

The Acuras have impressed in ALMS pre-season testing and are expected to give Porsche's Spyders more a run for their money on pace this season. Team co-owner Michael Andretti believes his son has a real shot at victory at Sebring, after watching Marco test the car.

"This is a great opportunity for Marco, but also gives us a great line-up for the 12 Hours of Sebring," said Michael. "We really feel like we've got three very fast drivers that are smart enough to have the XM car around at the end, and that is obviously very critical in a race like this. Marco has tested well and has proven he's up to the challenge."