Taking yet another step in the team’s continuing growth in the North American sports car scene, Southern California-based Global Motorsports Group (GMG) will take their first laps in the all-new TUDOR United SportsCar Championship during this weekend’s traditional Roar Before the 24.

As the official pre-season test before the season opening Rolex 24 At Daytona, the team will join the rest of the TUDOR Championship, bringing their No. 32 Audi R8 LMS along with the team’s full driver lineup for the 24 hour classic. While the team had previously announced long-time team driver Alex Welch joining team owner James Sofronas, the duo is pleased to additionally welcome Audi-provided drivers Frank Stippler and Marc Basseng.

Stippler, from Cologne, is a veteran development driver for Audi. With two decades of racing experience, Stippler is no stranger to endurance success. In 2012, the German had a breakout year, taking victory in some of Europe’s greatest endurance races, including the 24 Hours of Nürburgring and the 24 Hours of Spa. In 2013, Stippler took second place honors for Audi at Daytona, as well as second in the FIA GT Championship.

Basseng, also from Germany, is a veteran of GT competition as well. Having driven in a variety of categories, including the American Le Mans Series, Porsche Supercup and more, Marc took championship honors in the FIA GT championship in 2012. In 2013, the German took second place at the Rolex 24 At Daytona.

“It’s a big honor to be joined by two talents like Frank and Marc,” stated GMG team owner James Sofronas. “We’ve enjoyed a great relationship with Audi Sport Customer Racing over the last two years and receiving their support for Daytona is a big boost. We’re under no illusions that this will be an incredibly challenging race and we’re coming as prepared as we can. This weekend’s test is an important weekend for us, as we know that preparation will be super critical.”

Similarly, Alex Welch is looking forward to his first laps at the famed circuit.

“It’s a dream to race at Daytona, and I’m very excited to finally take to the track,” stated the Colorado resident. “Everyone at GMG has been working extremely hard to get this program moving, and this weekend’s test is the first big challenge.”

This year’s Roar Before the 24 will begin on Friday, January 3, and run through Sunday, January 5. The event is open to the public, and similarly GMG will provide continuing updates through Facebook and Twitter.