Alonso returning to Daytona next year

Two-time Formula One world champion Fernando Alonso will return to Daytona in January for another tilt at the Rolex 24 Hours endurance race, Wayne Taylor Racing said on Tuesday.

Alonso competed last year with United Autosports, a team owned by McLaren boss Zak Brown, before going on to win the 24 Hours of Le Mans with Toyota.

The 37-year-old said farewell to Formula One at Sunday's season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

"Returning to the United States is always special. The atmosphere created by the fans is unique throughout an incredible weekend," the Spaniard said.

"I really hope to fight for the win, as well as having fun ..."

Toyota world endurance driver Kamui Kobayashi will join Alonso at the January 26-27 race along with Wayne Taylor regulars Jordan Taylor and Renger van der Zande.

Alonso is also scheduled to race the Indianapolis 500 in May.