Russell Ingall and the Supercheap Auto Racing entry Photo credit: Supercheap Auto Racing

A reinvigorated Russell Ingall made a spectacular entry to reveal his new 2012 Supercheap Cheap Auto Racing livery.

The veteran of 16 full-time seasons launched his new car by crashing through the garage doors and onto pit lane at Sandown Raceway to signal the beginning of the ‘Russell Ingall Re-Enforcement Tour 2012’.

“I can’t tell you how excited I am about this opportunity,” Ingall said of his move to Walkinshaw Racing after four seasons with Paul Morris Motorsport.

“I’ve been jumping out of my skin over the off-season waiting to go racing again,” Ingall continued.

“Walkinshaw Racing is the home of the Holden Racing Team, so this is the first time in my career that I’ve raced for a factory outfit and have been able to draw on so much depth of experience and talent.

“I’ve raced for some great teams, but it’s eye-opening at just how professional an organisation like this is – now I know why it’s won eight championships and nine Bathurst 1000s!

“It’s got me fired up. I’ve been training my guts out, I’m fitter than ever and I just can’t wait for Clipsal – the Enforcer is back!”

Ingall is confident that with the addition of former Formula One engineer Steve Hallam as Walkinshaw Racing’s new Managing Director together with racing operations manager Mike Henry, team manager Erik Pender and engineer Rob Starr he has the best team behind him to make a return to the top-end of the grid.

“To be able to win races in a series as competitive and tough as V8 Supercars requires quality people and Supercheap Auto Racing can rightfully say it has the very best,” Ingall said.

“Their passion for racing and commitment to winning races is second to none and they’re tough as nails – I couldn’t hope for better re-enforcements.”

The 2012 IRWIN Racing Ford Falcon Photo credit: BAM Media

Lee Holdsworth has revealed his 2012 IRWIN Tools backed Ford Falcon racing colours and the Stone Brothers Racing new recruit couldn’t be happier.

The finishing touches to the new livery were completed yesterday with Holdsworth seeing it in its finished state for the first time.

“I’m really impressed with it, it’s really neat, IRWIN stands out great,” said Lee Holdsworth.

“Last year’s car looked good, but this is even better. I think it will look great up the front of the grid.”

Holdsworth believes that the IRWIN Ford looks better than any of the 2012 team liveries launched so far.

“I think the IRWIN car will stand out better than any other car on the grid,” said Holdsworth.

“You can spot it a mile away, the IRWIN logo just jumps out at you, which is what any sponsor wants.

“You will be able to clearly read it at 280 kilometres an hour as much as you will be able to see it from 500 metres away.

“The colours are unique, you can see the car, it’s different from anything else and it’s nice on the eye. I am very proud to be driving this car.”

Having only been employed by Stone Brothers Racing for six short weeks, Holdsworth is already impressed with his new team.

“The organisation and the way they coordinate everything; they have a specific chain of command, everything and everyone works so well – that’s what impresses me the most,” said Holdsworth.

“I’ve seen a few things that have made me feel like it’s a step up from what I’m used to and a big step forward in the right direction when it comes to my long-term career.

“The facilities are impressive, there is so much development happening.

“They have all the tools at hand to do anything they want. If we can put it all together and make some smart decisions we should have a really good package.”

Holdsworth is looking forward to getting behind the wheel at this weekend’s official pre-season test at Sandown and seeing where he stands against his new Stone Brothers Racing team mates Tim Slade and Shane van Gisbergen.

“Obviously Tim Slade and Shane van Gisbergen are pretty quick, if I can be on their pace that will be a good start,” said Holdsworth.

“It will be hard to do, but that’s what I’m aiming at.”

In his final season with Holden and Fujitsu Racing, Lee accumulated eleven top ten finishes and continued his strong record on street circuits with a front row start at the Telstra Sydney 500.

“The opening test day sets up the season a fair bit,” said Holdsworth.

“This is where you want to develop your car and get the base set-up for the year, which is what you want straight out of the truck. You develop things like shocks and try everything from one end of the scale to the other.

“For me though, I’ll be in a new car, so I want to try out different things and see what the changes do to the car.

“It’s very important and it does certainly show you where you are at the start of the year and probably gives you an idea of where you will be at the end of the year.”

Shane van Gisbergen's SP Tools Racing entry Photo credit: SP Tools Racing

V8 Supercars fans got their first glimpse at the new livery scheme for Shane van Gisbergen’s Stone Brothers Racing 2012 challenger yesterday.

The New Zealander chose to break away from convention and reveal the new look uploaded images of the SBR SP Tools Racing Ford Falcon on to the SP Tools YouTube page.

Van Gisbergen heads into his fifth year in the V8 Championship off the back of his best season date which saw him placed fourth last year.

The SP Tools Falcon will be seen in the flesh for the first time at the official test day at Sandown this weekend.

You can see the launch video by clicking on the link below.

You Tube: SP Tools – Stone Brothers Racing Launch Shane van Gisbergen’s Car No9 Livery For 2012

Photo credit: Nissan Australia

With the announcement that Nissan is to back a four-car factory team in the V8 Supercars with Kelly Racing from next year, making them the first manufacturer to crash Holden and Ford’s duopoly in two decades, both Holden and Ford have released statements welcoming the added competition.  Here’s what they had to say:

Holden

Holden has welcomed today’s announcement of a third manufacturer joining the V8 Supercar Championship in 2013.

GM Holden Chairman and Managing Director, Mike Devereux said he supported the increased competition in the category which Holden was instrumental in creating almost 20 years ago.

“The new car market has changed dramatically over the past few years creating many challenges for local manufacturers,” Devereux said.

“Understandably, V8 Supercars has seen the need to alter its requirements to encourage more manufacturers into the category to keep it relevant.

“The introduction of another manufacturer does not waiver our commitment; in fact we are excited about the challenge and it will add yet another chapter to our proud motorsport history.

“Holden is Australia’s car company and V8 Supercars will remain the quintessential Aussie motor racing series. We have the very best teams and the finest drivers, so we say – ‘Bring it on!’.”

Ford

“Nissan’s decision to join V8s from next year shows that the Car of the Future plan has merit and is an important step forward for the category,” said Graham Barrie, Ford Group Manager, Motorsport Sponsorship and Events.

“We look forward to seeing how V8 Supercar fans react now and once they’re on the grid.”

David Reynolds Photo credit: Rod Nash Racing

Rod Nash Racing has signed David Reynolds to The Bottle-O Racing Team, confirming the final driver in the factory Ford team’s line-up for the 2012 V8 Supercars season.

Reynolds raced for Kelly Racing’s Stratco Racing entry last year, but following a dispute over the terms of his contract, he has gained clearance to replace the retiring Paul Dumbrell in the #55 The Bottle-O Ford Falcon.

The settlement was confirmed in a statement released by Kelly Racing.

“Kelly Racing has reached an arrangement to release David Reynolds to another team for the 2012 V8 Supercars Championship,” the statement read.

“The matter between Kelly Racing and Reynolds has now been settled and the terms are strictly confidential.”

Reynolds is viewed as one of the emerging stars of Australian motorsport and team owner Rod Nash is pleased to have secured his services.

“It is with immense pleasure that we confirm David Reynolds as the driver of the #55 The Bottle-O FPR Ford,” Nash said.

“David is undoubtedly one of the stars of the future and we aim to work closely together to ensure our car joins the other two factory Fords at the head of the field.

“This should be made easier by the high level of development FPR has brought onto its cars in recent months so I am confident we are giving David a race-winning car.”

The move to Rod Nash Racing marks the 26-year-old former Porsche Carrera Cup and Formula Ford champion’s first drive for a factory-backed team.

“I am extremely excited to join The Bottle-O Racing Team and Rod Nash and the new partnership leaves me feeling highly-motivated for this new chapter in my career,” Reynolds said.

“Everyone here has welcomed me with open arms and the professionalism of the team is second to none.

“I’m really looking forward to driving with the factory Ford team and I cannot wait to sample a Falcon for the first time.

“It is also great to be reunited with my engineer James Small who I’ve worked with in the past. I am looking forward to continuing our successful relationship in the coming seasons.”

Nash believes the combination of Reynolds and Small, along with the proven speed of his Ford Performance Racing-prepared Falcon, will ensure his team is a regular fixture in the lead pack.

“As far as I’m concerned all the ducks are now in a row for car 55 and David to gain some great results into the future.

“David also has the right personality to fit into our close-knit team. I am really looking forward to seeing him in green for the first time this weekend at Sandown.”

Reynolds will sample the #55 The Bottle-O Ford for the first time on Saturday at the V8 Supercars season launch test day at Sandown Raceway in Melbourne.

Dale Wood and Tony D'Alberto Photo credit: Tony D'Alberto Racing

Tony D’Alberto Racing (TDR) has gone for consistency in its 2012 endurance campaign with the announcement that co-driver Dale Wood will join the team again for the races at Sandown and Bathurst.

It will be the second year in a row that Wood will drive with Tony D’Alberto, the pair having teamed up at Bathurst last year and taking ninth place.

Team owner Al D’Alberto said the team’s need for continuity was an important factor in bringing Wood back and believes the pair will again form a strong and reliable combination.

“Dale fitted in really well last year and did a good job at both endurance events. He delivered on our expectations and we didn’t hesitate in re-signing him for this year,” said D’Alberto.

“We’re very much of the mindset at TDR that continuity is the key ingredient needed for success, be it with drivers, staff or commercial partners.

We enjoyed some strong performances in patches last year and we expect to see improvement in 2012.”

TDR has also confirmed that its 2012 livery won’t be unveiled until the Clipsal 500. The team is yet to secure a major sponsor after it split with last year’s backer Wilson Security and will roll out with a clean-skin at this Saturday’s open test day at Sandown.

“Like a couple of other teams, our preference is to go about our testing this weekend and then release our livery prior to the opening event of the year,” said Al D’Alberto.

“We make no secret of the fact that we are actively seeking a naming rights sponsor, but it needs to be the right fit for the team and has to be a partner looking to grow with us for this year, and future years.

“We’re in the marketplace for a partner with a focus on building a brand with us.

“Most of our sponsors are entering a third year with us and it’s that continuity that helps to produce long-term partnerships, and hopefully on-track success. We’ve spoken with a number of potential naming right partners about various opportunities, but it’s not about grabbing any sponsor, it’s about joining forces with the right sponsor.”

Wood will waste no time reacquainting himself with the team and is expected to spend some time behind the wheel of the #3 TDR Falcon at the pre-season test at Sandown on Saturday.

Nissan announces its entry into V8SC Photo credit: V8 Supercars Media

Nissan has announced it will take on Ford and Holden in next year’s V8 Supercars Championship, becoming the first new manufacturer to confirm its entry into the sport under its new Car of the Future regulations.

The Japanese car giant will link up with current Holden team Kelly Racing, to field four factory entries with the full support of the NISMO Nissan Motorsport organisation, rebranding to Nissan Motorsport from 2013.

Billed as “one of the most significant announcements in the history of the sport” the partnership sees the return of Nissan to the top form of touring car racing in Australia after an absence of twenty years and signals the end of the Holden/Ford duopoly that has defined the sport for the last two decades.

The Car of the Future (CoTF) program was unveiled two years ago with an aim to cutting running costs and encouraging other marques to compete, in turn broadening fan and sponsor appeal.

Nissan last ran a factory team with Gibson Motorsport and four-wheel drive Nissan Skyline GT-Rs in 1992, claiming the Australian Touring Car Championship with Mark Skaife and the Bathurst 1000 with Skaife and Jim Richards.

The model and engine package that the team will use is still to be announced, although the company confirmed that it will use an ‘all-new’ sedan model.

“This opens up a whole new chapter for V8 Supercars,” says Skaife, now V8 Supercars Commission Chairman.

“The sport and the brand have been so successful over such a long period of time with today’s news reinforcing the direction of the business, coupled with imminent international expansion to multiple destinations globally.

“Nissan has clearly acknowledged V8 Supercars as a major component of their future plans within the Australian car market and motorsport internationally. V8 Supercars will deliver on their expectations.

“There is no doubting the entry of more manufacturers now that Nissan has taken the first step to recognize what the relationship will do for their brand.”

Nissan Australia managing director Dan Thompson said that the V8 Supercars program will play an vital role in the company’s future in the country.

“We plan to use our presence in the series to strengthen our passenger car credentials in Australia,”  Thompson said.

“Nissan believes that, alongside Ford and Holden, we possess the most convincing motorsport DNA and track history in Australia, making a V8SC debut in 2013 an obvious initiative.

“We are targeting No.1 importer status in Australia and already making progress towards that as one of the country’s fastest growing brands. V8 Supercars will boost that momentum.”

V8 Supercars Chairman Tony Cochrane acknowledged it was a significant day for the series.

“We welcome Nissan with more than open arms,” he said.

“This announcement ratifies all we have known about V8 Supercars for a long time – that we are an international player, a growing following globally and in great demand by big business and corporate players.

“I also applaud Kelly Racing for this pioneering move to embrace Nissan and take one of the world’s biggest brands on their journey within the V8 Supercar Championship. Todd and Rick are truly remarkable businessmen, visionaries and drivers.”

Former V8 Supercar champion and Kelly Racing team co-owner, Rick Kelly was delighted with the move.

“I couldn’t be more excited with the opportunity Nissan has offered Todd, myself and the entire team at Kelly Racing to become their official factory team,” said Kelly.

“Nissan’s genuine enthusiasm, unwavering support and absolute professionalism through this evaluation has been tremendous and underpins their absolute intentions of Championship success in the category – a dream we share and hope to deliver on.

“This new partnership has only been made possible by the endless amount of hard work that John Crennan has done for Kelly Racing on this project, and that of Ian Moreillon, Jeff Fisher and the team at Nissan of which Todd and I are very grateful.

“The Nissan CotF project is a huge undertaking however Todd and I are firmly focused on the job at hand this season ensuring that Kelly Racing takes those important steps forward on and off the race track.

“Development of our cars and recruitment of key personnel in the off-season should assist us to realise these immediate goals.

“This new partnership brings with it a host of opportunities for the team, our business partners and of course fans and delivers the vision that we have shared since our inception in the category in 2009.”

Business partner and elder brother Todd Kelly said Kelly Racing’s innovative business strategies fitted perfectly with Nissan’s desire to enter the V8 Supercar Championship.

“Rick and I have had one clear goal that we have been striving for since we started Kelly Racing, that was to become a benchmark race-winning team with factory support.

“The timing with Car of the Future has enabled us to engage a manufacturer and achieve that.

“We couldn’t be happier to be a factory Nissan team and factory Nissan drivers.”

Karl Reindler's Fair Dinkum Sheds Racing entry Photo credit Kelly Racing/BAM Media

Kelly Racing has announced Karl Reindler will join the Melbourne-based team to drive under the Fair Dinkum Sheds Racing banner in 2012.

Reindler replaces Dave Reynolds and Stratco Racing and completes Kelly Racing’s driver line-up for the 2012 V8 Supercars Championship. He joins Todd Kelly and Rick Kelly (Jack Daniel’s Racing) and Greg Murphy (Pepsi Max Crew) in the four-car outfit.

“I’m very excited about my move to Kelly Racing,” said Reindler.

“I had some time in the Kelly Racing workshop in January to run through plans for this season and to meet all of the crew and there is a really great atmosphere within the place.

“The facility is just incredible and the fact that they are building more to bring it all under one roof just adds to that and makes it a great showcase for the sport. It’s the best facility that I’ve seen in the country.

Reindler joins Kelly Racing after two seasons in the top-flight series with Brad Jones Racing, where he notched up four top-10 race finishes and the 26-year old is looking to take his racing career to the next level.

“This is the start of what I hope to be a long and prosperous relationship with Kelly Racing. The team is one of the newest in the championship but they had some great results last year and the team is constantly building on what they have to ensure they keep progressing.

“The attention to detail is just unbelievable. If they can improve on something they will do it and they are very serious about what they do.

“You can see that with their quick rise and to have results come so quickly, with Rick having three wins in the team’s third year, is a credit to the team, its management and how the business operates.”

Kelly Racing Co-Owner and Commercial Director, Rick Kelly believes their latest recruit will fit right in.

“We are very excited to have Karl join Kelly Racing for 2012,” said Kelly.

“Karl is a great young guy with a lot of talent and as a team we are going to work hard with him to unlock that potential with the aim of having him finish in the top 10 on a regular basis.

“I have raced with Karl many times on the track and have a lot of respect for him in the way he approaches his racing.

“Karl fits very well with the future plans of our team and it’s refreshing to see that he is just as excited about our new relationship as everyone here at Kelly Racing is, including Todd and myself.”

Reindler’s entry will be backed by Fair Dinkum Sheds, the third consecutive year that the West Australian young gun will be backed by Australia’s leading supplier of garages and sheds.

“To have Fair Dinkum Sheds onboard with me for the third year in a row is great as well and I’m looking forward to building on that relationship even further in 2012.

He will have his first official outing with Kelly Racing at the pre-season test at Sandown on Saturday.

The 2012 Lucky 7 Racing Falcon Photo credit: Lucky 7 Racing / BAM Media

Tim Slade got behind the wheel of his brand new Lucky 7 Racing Ford Falcon FG V8 Supercar in a shakedown at Queensland Raceway this week and revealed his new racing colours ahead of this weekend’s season opening test day in Melbourne.

The Stone Brothers Racing built Lucky 7 Falcon is set to be the last current-specification car to be built before the next generation Car of the Future debuts next year and the 20-lap ‘shakedown’ went without a hitch.

“The first laps in the new car were pretty cool, it’s a shame that we only get 20 laps,” said Tim Slade.

“I’d love to spend all day out there, but we have plenty of time for that at Sandown later in the week.

The all-new 2012 Lucky 7 livery is set to debut at the first round of the season in Adelaide early next month, with Slade joining up with his Stone Brothers Racing stablemates Lee Holdsworth and Shane van Gisbergen.

“I think the livery looks fantastic,” Slade continued. “I thought last year’s car looked pretty cool, but I had a chance to look at the new car from a distance and it really stood out on the track.

“For Lucky 7 the key is to have a car that looks bold and stands out well, I think this has been achieved.”

Having finished 2011 in the top 10, his best ever season, Slade has set himself more ambitious goals for 2012.

“We finished ninth last year, we have to better that,” said Slade.

“Last year we showed flashes of form but we need to improve our consistency week in week out.

“I’d expect a top eight this year in the championship, a few more podiums and we’ll be chasing for that first win pretty hard as well.”

Lucky 7 Racing Team Principal Ross Stone was happy with the car but his main goal is to see Slade take the next step in his career.

“Definitely we need to take the next step, and Tim needs to do the same as a driver, which I believe he can,” said Stone.

“We are strong as a team, the engineering team is great and as long as we are all doing the simple things OK we’ll be on the money in 2012.”

Slade’s engineer Wes MacDougall has echoed the thoughts of Stone, believing that they have built a very strong, competitive car that will provide Slade with the consistency needed to attain his pre-season goals.

“We need to improve our qualifying, but Tim’s shown, and the car has shown, that when we get it right we are really close to Triple Eight,” said MacDougall.

“Improving our consistency is what we need.

“We are striving to make sure that the car will be as good as it can be and beat (Triple Eight) as well.

“The (Lucky 7 Ford) looks nice; hopefully it’ll go as quick as it looks.”

Michael Patrizi Photo credit: Tekno Autosports

Tekno Autosports has confirmed Michael Patrizi as the driver of its #91 Commodore for the 2012 V8 Supercars Championship.

After a two-year absence, Patrizi makes a full-time return to the championship having driven for Triple F Racing alongside Dean Fiore in the V8 Supercar endurance events at Bathurst and Phillip Island last season and competing for McElrea Racing in the Australian Porsche Carrera Cup Championship, where he won three races.

Patrizi will team up with Tekno Autosports owner and driver Jonathon Webb in the newly expanded two-car team and will compete in a Triple Eight Race Engineering-built Holden Commodore VE raced last season in V.I.P Petfoods colours by Steve Owen.

Tekno Team Manager Bruce Jenkins is delighted that Patrizi will be joining the team this season.

“Michael brings with him a wealth of experience having been involved in competitive racing for many years throughout Europe, Asia, the USA and Australia from an early age. He demonstrated that he has the professionalism, attitude and enthusiasm to step into V8’s and importantly he is the right fit for our team,” Jenkins said.

Patrizi is as equally excited to be joining the team.

“I am thrilled to have secured the drive with Tekno alongside Jonathon for the season. The team has big plans both on and off the track this year, particularly transitioning into a two Holden team. I’m stoked to be given the opportunity to be a part of such an exciting team,” Patrizi said.

Webb, meanwhile, put in his first laps in his brand new Triple Eight-designed Holden V8 Supercar at a shakedown earlier this week at Queensland Raceway, before he and the team heads to the official Sandown V8 Test Day this weekend.

“The crew have put in an amazing effort to build both cars from scratch in a short amount of time, I couldn’t be happier with how the car performed today. Michael and I can’t wait to get to Sandown and give our Holden’s a run on Saturday,” Webb said.

The announcement came at the unveiling of the team’s new livery scheme ahead of the upcoming V8 Supercars Championship series.

Dumbrell and Luff confirmed alongside Whincup and Lowndes for Sandown and Bathurst enduros Photo credit: TeamVodafone

Paul Dumbrell and Warren Luff will join Jamie Whincup and Craig Lowndes at the Sandown and Bathurst endurance events, and 2011 Gold Coast 600 race winners Sébastien Bourdais and Richard Lyons are confirmed for the international driver event on the streets of Surfers Paradise.

With three separate co-driver events playing a pivotal role in the series, TeamVodafone has secured racers it believes will best assist the team to its goal of back-to-back championship wins.

TeamVodafone Team Principal Adrian Burgess said motivation and momentum within the team was at an all-time high, noting the selection of a high-calibre co-driver lineup as a significant coup.

“TeamVodafone enjoyed its most successful year in V8 Supercars in 2011, ending the season with the ultimate scenario of having both drivers in the running for the title, nail biting stuff for us and fantastic for our naming rights sponsor Vodafone,” said Burgess.

“We’ve hit the ground running in 2012 and are well-prepared for the season to start.

“We’re especially pleased to have locked in a quality co-driver lineup for Sandown and Bathurst, and the international race on the Gold Coast.

“Paul and Warren have extensive experience as full-time V8 Supercar drivers, and we welcome the return of Sébastien Bourdais and Richard Lyons who were both race winners in 2011.”

Thrilled to be driving alongside Whincup in the Sandown and Bathurst endurance events, Dumbrell said: “This is an incredible opportunity. It is a privilege to drive for the team that has dominated the V8 Supercar Championship throughout the last 5 years. It is also great to be driving alongside of one of my good friends Jamie Whincup.

“I have been very lucky to drive for a number of leading teams within the category, but I head to TeamVodafone the most excited I’ve been throughout my career, albeit in a different role.”

“October can’t come soon enough,” exclaimed Luff. “I am very excited at the prospect of joining Team Vodafone for this year’s endurance races. They have proven to be the team to beat over the last 5 years and Craig’s record at Bathurst speaks for itself.

“As a driver, Bathurst is held in the highest regard and as a kid I remember watching Bathurst and being in complete awe of the event, this year will be my 11th Bathurst start and without doubt the best chance I have ever had to win.”

Returning to the TeamVodafone fold again for the first time since 2007, Lyons is no stranger to V8 Supercar racing, having driven for the team at Sandown and Bathurst in 2006 and 2007 and tasting victory with Mark Winterbottom in the second race of the Gold Coast 600 in 2011, but this will be the first time he’s driven a Holden V8 Supercar.

“I’m thrilled to be back driving again with TeamVodafone as they gave me my first chance to drive a V8 Supercar,” said the 32 year old Irishman.

“Since I last drove with the team they have enjoyed amazing success, it’s an honour to be selected to drive for them in the Gold Coast 600.

“Last year was my first time to drive the Gold Coast track and my first time driving a tin-top around a street circuit. It’s a really tough course and an extremely high pressure weekend for the co-drivers as it’s on the run to the Championship finish, everything counts!

“This will be my first time driving a Holden and I’m really looking forwards to seeing the difference, especially a TeamVodafone Commodore. It’s hard not to have high expectations this year with already a win and a podium from last year but as always I’ll give it everything.”

After enjoying podium success with Jamie Whincup in 2011, Sébastien Bourdais was delighted to be joining up with the team again.

“It is great to be back for another year with TeamVodafone. We had an awesome run in 2011 and I couldn’t have been any happier with the way things went.”

“Hopefully, we will be in the same position coming to Surfers with the championship lead and a lot of success. I have faith in Craig and Jamie to make it happen and I wish them both a great start to the season.”

Looking to the year ahead, Lowndes said: “I’m really excited about 2012 we are starting the season with all our ducks in a row and hope to kick the year how we finished.

“I’m looking forward to teaming up with Warren. We know each other fairly well, having driven together in the Bathurst 12 Hour and also at Nurburgring last year.

“It is reassuring that we have such strong drivers supporting us all of our endurance events. Both Sébastien Bordais and Richard Lyons did a great job at last year’s Gold Coast 600 and I am sure they will support us well in 2012.”

Delighted with the co-driver line-up, Whincup added: “The last couple of years we have been very lucky in having excellent co-drivers for the endurance races and this year is no exception.

“I will be driving with Paul Dumbrell at Sandown and Bathurst so once again I will be paired with a good mate of mine. I look forward to working with him during the year and making sure we are on our A-game come the middle of September.

“Our Gold Coast 600 co-drivers were both on the podium last years. I enjoyed great success with Sebastien Bordais last year and Richard Lyons, who drove for the team in 2006 and 2007 won the Sunday race with Mark Winterbottom.”

TeamVodafone 2012 livery Photo credit: TeamVodafone

Defending V8 Supercar Drivers’ and Teams’ Champion, TeamVodafone has revealed the new livery scheme for the team’s Holden Commodores it will run ahead of the upcoming V8 Supercars Championship series.

Naming rights again go to Vodafone, its sixth season as sponsor of TeamVodafone, which owns the enviable statistic of winning more than a third of the races contested during this period, including wins on every circuit visited during the V8 Supercar season.

“The TeamVodafone Commodores have taken on a dramatic new look for 2012 that will make it easy for fans to spot them anywhere on the track – no matter how fast they are travelling!  The customary rocket red has been “metallisized” and is now dominating the scheme with chrome, black and carbon-fibre graphics finishing off the car’s meticulous detail,” said Stephen Saunders, Head of Sponsorship and Events at Vodafone.

Excited to see what the team can achieve again this year, Saunders added: “As naming rights sponsor you simply can’t get better than a 1-2 finish.

“In 2011, TeamVodafone was the one to watch and we brought customers and fans closer to the V8 action than ever before.  2012 will be no different and with the team going for back-to-back championships it’s set to be a thrilling season.”

V8 Supercar Champion Jamie Whincup expressed his excitement about the prospect of a new season and said he looked forward to the series taking further steps overseas.

“V8 Supercars announced some fantastic developments for the sport last year, I think it’s a great thing we are starting a little later and I’m glad the first event has returned to Australia, as it’s great to kick things off on home soil,” said Whincup.

“In saying that, I’m looking forward to heading back to Abu Dhabi for the Formula 1 race; it’s definitely going to be one of my highlights of the season.”

The 28-year-old said the livery and driver suit updates were an exciting change for the new season.

“When you already have a strong product it’s hard to improve it, but I think the commercial team has done a great job this year, the cars look incredible and I can’t wait to get behind the wheel this weekend.”

“We are running white suits this year, which I am stoked about. With the in-car temperatures reaching 60 degrees we are always looking for ways to stay as cool as possible and the difference between white and red is actually quite significant.”

Team-mate Craig Lowndes pushed Whincup all the way to the final race of the year, eventually losing out on his fourth V8 Supercars championship by just 35 points, is keen to get the new season underway.

“2011 was a great year for TeamVodafone and I certainly gave the Championship my best shot and was proud of my driving achievements throughout the season,” said Lowndes.

“I’m confident with the existing Holden Commodores and the TeamVodafone crew that we will now go into the 2012 season with fantastic momentum and then some!  Expect to see that rocket red V8 Supercar looking like it’s flying around the track not driving on it.”

TeamVodafone will also enter its third year contesting the championship with Holden. Holden Sponsorship Manager Simon McNamara saying the association had been “nothing short of outstanding.”

“In the two seasons Jamie and Craig have driven TeamVodafone Commodores the team has delivered countless race wins, a Bathurst 1000 victory, and last year’s championship 1-2 in a record-breaking year for Holden,” McNamara said.

“We are extremely proud of our partnership with the team and excited about the season ahead. The change in appearance to the TeamVodafone Commodores is also quite dramatic, and the rocket red ensures they are even more unmistakably Holden.”

The new TeamVodafone livery can be seen on track for the first time at the V8 Supercars official pre-season test at the Sandown Raceway, in Melbourne on 11 February.

Will Davison with the 2012 Tradingpost FPR Falcon Photo credit: Ford Performance Racing

Ford Performance Racing’s (FPR) Will Davison believes he will be a contender for the 2012 V8 Supercars title, looking to an early maiden win with the team to mount his first step in the challenge.

Davison stated his intentions as the wraps were taken off the livery that he will run on his #6 Tradingpost FPR Ford challenger.

The former Bathurst winner, who finished seventh in last year’s championship says that having the same team-mate and the same chassis and engineer (Grant McPherson) he enjoyed such a return to form with in the latter part of last season, gives him confidence heading into the new season.

“I have never been more optimistic heading into a race season as I genuinely believe in our ability to be contenders from the first race of the year,” Davison said.

“We worked very hard last year to improve our ability to have a car that is strong no matter what tyres we use or what sort of circuit we race on. I plan to put all that effort into winning races. Once we get our first I have a feeling we can keep the ball rolling.

“I always enjoy pulling the covers off a new car at the start of the season and the new livery looks great. The car really stands out. It looks cool.”

FPR Team Principal Tim Edwards believes the stability and continuity around Davison will help him thrive in the upcoming season.

“Will enjoyed a great first year with us and I know nobody was more annoyed than himself that he wasn’t able to win a race,” Edwards said.

“He performs at his best when he has the support of everyone around him and after he established those relationships last year we saw his form get better and better.

“Once he records his first win I can honestly see him becoming a regular fixture at the head of the field.”

Davison and the Tradingpost FPR Falcon hit the track for the first time in the official pre-season test at the Sandown Raceway in Melbourne on 11 February.

Dean Canto Photo credit: Rod Nash Racing

Dean Canto will again drive the #55 The Bottle-O Racing Team Ford Falcon in this year’s V8 Supercars endurance races at Sandown and Bathurst.

The two-time V8 Supercars Development Series champion and former full-time V8 Supercars driver returns for a third-straight year with the Rod Nash Racing-owned outfit and his fifth-consecutive year within the Ford Performance Racing stable.

Canto will drive the #55 FPR-prepared and run Falcon alongside the yet-to-be-named full-time driver who will replace the retiring Paul Dumbrell.

“I am really happy to be with the team again as we came on strong last year as the season progressed after we sorted a few things,” Canto said.

“With that in mind I can see us starting strong this year and given our form last year in the enduros I think we will have a very competitive package.

“Last year we had our potential high finish at Bathurst cruelly taken away from us so even though the end result was out of our control, we can build on that speed and have a better year in 2012.”

Team owner Rod Nash is pleased the 31-year-old agreed to sign up for a third year in his car and he believes there is no reason Canto will not deliver the same form again this year.

“Dean has always been a consistent contributor so it is great we have been able to again secure his services,” Nash said.

“He has been part of the FPR network for a number of years and is not only highly-respected, but has a safe pair of hands which is vital come enduro time.

“This year we really plan to take a significant step forward as a team and Dean will be a key part of that.”

Canto will reacquaint himself with the #55 The Bottle-O Ford this Saturday where he will drive for the first time this year at V8 Supercars’ season launch test day at Sandown in Melbourne.

James Moffat's Team Norton DJR 2012 entry Photo credit: Team Norton DJR

James Moffat will race under the new banner of Team Norton DJR in the 2012 V8 Supercars season, his Dick Johnson Racing (DJR) team confirmed at the launch of the new livery today.

Moffat’s car was presented in front of a live audience in Sydney as part of a unique unveiling with DJR mechanics and V8 Supercars fans attaching body panels to the chassis to gradually reveal the new yellow and black livery.

Internet security company Norton take the title sponsorship of the #18 DJR Ford Falcon, after an association dating back to 2010 when Moffat ran in the Norton colours in his two seasons in the V8 Supercars Development Series.

The Team Norton DJR #18 entry takes the number of cars in the expanded DJR outfit this year to four and Moffat, heading into his second season in the V8 Supercar main game is pleased to be racing under his new colours.

“I think the car looks really amazing and it reflects the enthusiasm that all the Norton team is feeling for the year ahead,” said Moffat.

“If the car goes as good as it looks we’ll be in great shape!”

“Naming rights sponsorship has been a natural evolution, from the time Norton started sponsoring me in the Development Series a couple of years ago. I can’t thank Norton enough for their support and commitment.

Symantec Pacific Consumer Sales Director, Matthew Drake, says V8 Supercar racing has proven to be an ideal way of communicating the speed and performance of Norton products.

“This will be our fifth year in V8 Supercar racing and over that time the sport has helped create many loyal customers for Norton and spread the message that our products are the fastest on the market,” said Mr Drake.

“Team Norton DJR will allow us to give our customers and channel partners a more personal behind-the-scenes experience of V8 Supercars and having our own race car will give them, and us, something extra to cheer about.”

“There’s also an important community education element to what we are doing: the Team Norton DJR car will give us a platform to raise community awareness of internet safety issues.”

Dick Johnson racing has welcomed the support from Norton.

“We’re thrilled to have Norton as the naming rights sponsor for car 18,” said the team boss.

“They’re # 1 in the Australian market and we’re going to try our hardest to make them # 1 on the race track.”

Moffat will debut the Norton entry at V8 Supercars’ test day at Sandown on February 11.

HRT 2012 Livery Photo credit: Holden Racing Team

Holden’s official factory team, the Holden Racing Team has unveiled its livery for the 2012 V8 Supercars season.

The new paint scheme features a heavier presence of black fused with carbon-fibre accents and the introduction of gold into the famous team logo.

“The 2012 Holden Racing Team livery is a progressive evolution of last year’s dramatic change in appearance,” Holden Design’s Peter Hughes said.

“We’ve introduced gold into the HRT logo to better integrate the livery as a whole and turned up the volume – this year’s car is even more aggressive and angry, but still unmistakably HRT.”

Holden Sponsorship Manager, Simon McNamara said the change to the team logo was a fitting tribute to HRT’s winning heritage.

“Last year, in its 21st year the Holden Racing Team won its seventh Bathurst and 200th all-time race so the updated logo reflects the success it has had in bringing home the gold,” McNamara said.

“The more aggressive appearance also portrays the intense determination existing within Holden and HRT to add to its record in 2012.”

Competing in his fifth year with HRT, Garth Tander said the livery revealed the team’s resolve to build on past success.

“Peter Hughes and Holden Design have done it again, not only meeting the design brief but exceeding expectations,” the three-time Bathurst 1000 Champion said.

“The new look is fantastic – unmistakably HRT, but also bold and intimidating.

“It also reflects the commitment to realise the results of our hard work and to not just be representatives of HRT, but also contributors to its legacy.”

2010 V8 Supercar Champion, James Courtney added:

“I love the new look of our HRT Commodores – they’re loud, have attitude and show we mean business,” he said.

The unveiling also revealed a number of sponsorship changes with HRT welcoming a new agreement with Continental Tyres, ending a long standing deal with Bridgestone, and a bigger partnership with Coates Hire, which was an endurance partner in 2011.

The team has also formed an alliance with Virgin Australia as Official Airline Partner.

Long-time loyal sponsors, Toll and NGK Spark Plugs will remain the team’s major backers, with continued support from Mobil (now in its 20th year with HRT), UD Trucks and Rockstar Energy Drinks.

The unveiling of the new look is the first part of a two-stage launch strategy. Stage two will be a corporate season launch on 16 February which will see a season theme and new team mantra premiered, along with the formal introduction of new HRT Managing Director, Steve Hallam.

The HRT Commodore will make its on-track debut when Tander and Courtney take part in the Official Pre-Season Test on 11 February.

DJR/V.I.P Petfoods launch Photo credit: Dick Johnson Racing

Steve Owen will switch to Ford and become a part of a four-car Dick Johnson Racing (DJR) operation with backing from V.I.P. Petfoods, the team confirmed today.

The expansion to four cars follows a merger with Paul Morris Motorsports (PMM) that will see the #49 PPM car move across to the DJR stable and will see current driver, Steve Owen jump into a Ford FG Falcon for the first time as a full-time driver in the V8 Supercars Championship.

DJR formally announced the merger with PMM and unveiled the new look V.I.P. Petfoods Ford Falcon for the 2012 season at the official team launch on 2 February.

Owen, who finished 17th in last year’s championship will join the two Jim Beam Racing entries of Steven Johnson and new recruit Dean Fiore and the Norton-sponsored car of James Moffat.

“This is a fantastic opportunity to compete in another full season in the ‘main game’,” said Owen.

“I really have to thank V.I.P. Petfoods for their continued support of my V8 Supercar career.”

Commenting on the new team and the merger, Owner and Team Principal, Dick Johnson Racing said:

“For the first time in our history, we will run a four-car team in the main game this year. It’s an exciting development for us and I really look forward to welcoming Steve back to DJR after his endurance drive with us in 2008.

“The support of such an iconic local company like V.I.P. Petfoods, is essential for the success of a team like ours. They are passionate supporter of Australian motorsports and we look forward to working with Tony, Rex and the V.I.P. Petfoods team closely throughout the season.”

The #49 V.I.P Petfoods Falcon will be prepared by the DJR workshop under a Racing Entitlements Contract owned by PMM Principal Paul Morris, who added:

“The DJR / PMM merger is not only a great commercial opportunity for our sponsors and team, but is a great chance for us to work alongside Dick. I have great respect for him as a person, team owner and for the brand he has created.”

Owen will debut with the team at V8 Supercars’ test day at Sandown on 11 February.

Tony Dowe Photo credit: Kelly Racing

Kelly Racing has appointed internationally experienced motorsport engineer Tony Dowe to the position of Performance Director.

Dowe will oversee the technical and racing aspects of the operation, which enters its fourth year of competition in 2012.

The Briton is the former Managing Director of Tom Walkinshaw Racing’s United States arm, which operated the successful Jaguar sportscar program in the late 1980s and early 1990s, winning both the Daytona and Le Mans 24 Hour events.

He also has experience in Formula One, IndyCars, MotoGP as well as a spell at the FIA as a representative on their sportscar technical working group.

Having completed a four-month engineering consultancy role with Kelly Racing in the final stages of the 2011 V8 Supercars Championship, Dowe has now relocated from the United States to Australia to work from the team’s Melbourne headquarters.

“I recognised massive potential in Kelly Racing as a result of my consultancy role with the team in the last part of 2011,” said Tony Dowe.

“This team is in a growth phase and it was an easy decision when Todd asked me to take on this full-time role because Kelly Racing is such an exciting young team.

“I’m really enjoying working alongside Todd in shaping the direction of the company and putting together a world-class engineering group.

“There is a lot of work still ahead of us but I’m genuinely excited about the direction of the team heading into this season.”

Todd Kelly, Kelly Racing Co-Owner and Racing Director says the appointment represents a step forward for the team.

“There is a fair bit going on here at Kelly Racing so it’s good to have someone with the experience of Tony Dowe on board to help oversee all the different projects that we are implementing in 2012,” he said.

“Tony is extremely valuable to the team, especially given his contacts globally, which we have used to attract additional key people into Kelly Racing.

“The big focus for us this year is to really take the team to the next level and we can’t do that without hiring more staff and higher level staff to fill key positions. Tony has been fantastic in that respect and secured some outstanding people to the team that we will announce shortly.

“As far as the team goes, especially in an engineering sense, this year our capabilities will be much higher than they’ve ever been since we’ve been in operation.”

Scott McLaughlin Photo credit: V8 Supercars Media

Tekno Autosports has announced 18 year-old Scott McLaughlin will co-drive alongside Jonathon Webb in this year’s V8 Supercars endurance races at Sandown and Bathurst.

McLaughlin, the youngest ever V8 Supercars Development Series race winner, will partner Webb in the #19 Tekno Autosports Holden Commodore VE in what will be the young Gold Coaster’s V8 endurance debut.

Tekno Autosports Team Manager Bruce Jenkins is thrilled with the appointment.

“I’ve been keeping a close eye on Scott for a couple years now and think he is a genuine star of the future,” he said.

“His results to date, particularly at such a young age speak for themselves and he brings excitement and enthusiasm to the team which is what we are about.

“We have undergone some exciting changes in the last 12 months and we’ve set high expectations for ourselves in 2012. Our move to a two car Holden team is evidence of this and I have no doubt that Scott will play an integral role in how we place in the enduros this season.”

McLaughlin, who revealed talks with Jenkins have been ongoing for some time is delighted to be joining up with the team.

“In early 2009 Bruce engineered me in Western Australia when I was competing in a handful of Formula Ford events in order to close out my CAMS license,” said McLaughlin.

“When he arrived to head up Tekno last year we started talking again, then earlier this year Bruce and I met for bit of a chat and we’ve been exploring the co-driving role ever since.

“In addition to the planned expansion to two cars, when it became clear that it was alongside Webby, I jumped at the chance to partner him.

“The whole Tekno team are currently working through a big program of change and it’s exciting to think I will be driving alongside a former V8 Supercar race-winner – and also in a Triple Eight-built Commodore.

“Webby and I are a similar size, which is important, and the team are going to give me every chance to get right up to speed during the year – I couldn’t be happier and can’t wait to have my first run.”

McLaughlin will again compete in the Development Series this year with the backing of Fujitsu Racing, after finishing fourth in 2011 with Stone Brothers Racing. He will also drive a Supercheap Auto-backed Commodore in the inaugural New Zealand V8SuperTourers championship.

Alexandre Prémat's new ride -the #33 Fujitsu Racing car Photo credit: V8 Supercars Media

Garry Rogers Motorsport has announced the signing of Frenchman Alexandre Prémat in the #33 Fujitsu Racing entry for the 2012 V8 Supercars season.

The 29-year-old former DTM, Le Mans, A1GP and Formula Renault driver will team up with Michael Caruso, filling the seat left vacant by Lee Holdsworth who has joined Stone Brothers Racing.

Rogers had thought to be looking at several home-grown rising stars, but in an interview with Sydney newspaper The Daily Telegraph, he revealed he was forced to look overseas and end his policy of signing young and up-and-coming drivers because the category had become “ultra-competitive”.

“I will either be a genius or a huge dickhead,” Rogers said.

“Some will see it as a shock and a major risk but I really think he is the man for the job.

“It is sad but that is the way the sport is,” Rogers added.

“I did a lot of thinking and research and I just thought I couldn’t take the risk of putting another young bloke in. I needed experience.

“My team has had a lot of success with our young driver program over the years but you no longer can afford the time and results that come with the inexperienced drivers. You need drivers who have a solid knowledge of the technical attributes of these cars and who are able to drive them very fast every lap.”

Prémat will become the first international driver to compete in the series full-time since Max Wilson from Brazil in 2007.

“I had watched a lot of the V8 Supercar races on cable television as it is very popular in Europe,” Prémat told The Daily Telegraph.

“It is a very exciting category and I really thought that I would like to become involved.

“I had had some dialogue with Garry Rogers as I knew of their team and was aware there was going to be an opportunity to join them.

“I believe Garry has a strong team and I have the necessary skills to do well.”

Scott Pye Photo credit: Triple Eight Racing Engineering

Scott Pye has been confirmed as the new driver of Triple Eight Race Engineering’s championship-winning Monster Energy/GearWrench backed Holden Commodore in the 2012 V8 Supercars Development Series.

The highly rated South Australian who replaces Andrew Thompson, brings with him extensive experience from racing overseas, having won the 2010 British Formula Ford Championship and competed in the British Formula 3 Championship last year, where he finished 10th.

Triple Eight Race Engineering has been a driving force behind Pye in seasons past, and team owner Roland Dane is confident that the 22 year-old has what it takes to succeed in the V8 Supercar Development Series.

“Scott has been on our radar for some time and we have supported him in his Formula Ford and Formula 3 pursuits overseas where he has tasted great success,” said Dane.

“At 22 he is still a star on the rise and we believe he has the skills and determination to succeed in touring cars.

“We have signed Scott on a two-year deal which will see him involved in day-to-day operations at the workshop and ride days, a program we believe will truly allow him to develop as an all-round driver,” he continued.

“Last year we selected a driver with experience and set ourselves a clear goal of a championship win which we achieved.

“Our goal with Scott is to see him improve and learn everything there is to know about these cars. He has the potential to be successful at the highest level and most importantly has the attitude and desire to get it done,” Dane added.

Excited to continue his association with Triple Eight Race Engineering, Pye says he has high expectations for his debut touring car championship season.

“It’s fantastic to be returning home and working with Triple Eight Race Engineering who made my last two years racing in Europe possible,” said Pye.

“The team is the benchmark in Australian motorsport and I’ll do everything I can to capitalise on this opportunity.

“Like many aspiring drivers my goal was always Formula 1 but I have never overlooked V8 Supercars.

“Roland and I have realistic expectations. I’ve never competed with a roof over my head and this will be something different but I’ll be learning from every experience.

“It’s also great to be joining up with Monster Energy and GearWrench, I look forward to building longstanding relationships with both companies,” he said.

Monster Energy Australasian Manager Adrian Hunter said Pye was an exciting addition to the Monster Army and hoped for another successful season on-board the dominant and distinct matte black Holden Commodore.

“We’re pleased to be backing Triple Eight’s Development Series entry for a second year after a fantastic maiden championship in 2011,” said Hunter.

“Scott’s proven himself in open wheel racing and we’re looking forward to getting behind his campaign in the coming seasons.

“Monster Energy is all about supporting its athletes, and nurturing and developing talent. We believe this is the perfect pedestal for him to hone his skills and look forward to some great results as he finds his feet in this category.”

Pye will make his debut appearance in the opening round of the Development Series at the Clipsal 500 from March 1-4.

The special tribute to the late Jason Richards Photo credit: Brad Jones Racing

Brad Jones Racing has unveiled a special tribute to the late Jason Richards, a specially-designed logo bearing Richards’ initials in a shooting star.

The permanent tribute will run on the B-pillar (between the driver and rear door) of every V8 Supercar the team enters from this season on.

The New Zealander died after a battle with a rare form of cancer in December 2011 and his former team wanted to honour his three years with the squad in a special way.

“Everyone knows why it’s on there, but this way, he’s with us all the time,” team co-owner Brad Jones told BigPond Sport.

“It will be on the moulding next to the driver’s window, so you see it every time you get into the car. It’s only on the driver’s side.”

Fabian Coulthard's Lockwood Racing Commodore Photo credit: Brad Jones Racing

Brad Jones Racing have revealed the livery that will run on new sign-up Fabian Coulthard’s #14 Holden Commodore VE entry, with locking solutions company, Lockwood stepping into the role of title sponsor for the 2012 V8 Supercar season.

Having backed Brad Jones Racing’s entries as a minor sponsor on their headlights in recent seasons, Lockwood now join BOC (Jason Bright, #8) and Wilson Security (David Wall, #21) as title backers for Brad Jones Racing’s three entries in this year’s championship.

“Our involvement last year confirmed to us the success of the partnership and how we can leverage it,” said Lockwood Marketing Communications Manager, Nick Penny.

“Having naming rights was the natural progression as it will allow more assets to deliver our key marketing activities in 2012 as well as our internal programmes for our employee base in Australia.

“The partnership with BJR has also been outstanding, providing excellent value and a base for many of our marketing initiatives in 2011. We value the partnership with BJR and feel their business ethos is closely aligned to our own. They understand our business and have provided a fantastic platform for us to not only promote and advertise our brand but also engage with customers and our employees.

“We are extremely excited about 2012 and can’t wait to get racing at Clipsal in Adelaide. Everyone here at ASSA ABLOY Australia [Lockwood's global parent company] and, I’m sure our customers, will be cheering Fabian from the get go.”

Speaking at the launch of the new livery, Coulthard said:

“It’s a pretty exciting time, having a new team, new sponsor and new car. I just can’t wait to get the season underway and get some results.

“Lockwood is full of very passionate people, who are obviously very into their racing. They’ve got a lot of ideas about what they should do and I’m just so happy to work with them. It sounds like it’s going to be fun and we’ll both benefit.”

Coulthard will debut the Lockwood Racing Commodore for the first time at the at V8 Supercars’ pre-season test at Sandown in Melbourne on 11 February.

FPR's new-look #5 Orrcon Steel Falcon Photo credit: Ford Performance Racing

Mark Winterbottom has confirmed he will continue to race for Ford Performance Racing until at least the end of the 2014 season, having extended his current deal for a further three seasons.

The announcement came at the unveiling of the factory Ford team’s 2012 Orrcon Steel livery which Winterbottom will display on his #5 Ford Falcon in the 2012 V8 Supercars Championship.

After finishing third in the 2011 championship, Winterbottom believes the team’s form at the end of last season, coupled with a stable technical line-up which has now had a season to gel (team mate Will Davison is contracted until the end of 2013), will give him the tools needed to be at the head of the field for the entire 2012 season.

“We enter the new season with a stable technical package, a motivated and very fit crew and the knowledge that we now have a very fast car on all types of tracks,” Winterbottom said.

“As a team we know that we have to score more points than last year and win more races than last year and we have worked very hard in the off-season to ensure we have the tools to do just that.

Still sporting a boot to protect his broken left ankle after breaking his leg in a water skiing accident before Christmas, Winterbottom maintained he will be fit and ready for the season-opening race at the start of March, his seventh straight season with the Prodrive-owned team.

“A broken tibia is not the ideal preparation but the fact it happened well before the first race and is my left leg which doesn’t get used much at all driving the car means I don’t expect any issues at all when we arrive in Adelaide for the Clipsal 500.”

FPR Team Principal Tim Edwards, also in attendance at the livery unveiling, knows consistency will be key in 2012.

“We have a simple goal for the year that should stand us in good stead,” Edwards said.

“That is to score more points and more wins more often. We achieved that by the end of last year but this is a new season and we need to maintain a high-level of performance across all the events.

“When we give Mark the car he needs he has shown that he is a race winner so we just need to ensure we give him that week in, week out.”

Winterbottom will be on track with the new look #5 Orrcon Steel FPR at the V8 Supercars Season Launch test day at Sandown Raceway in Melbourne on 11 February.

Jason Bright's new-look Team BOC #8 Commodore Photo credit: Brad Jones Racing

Team BOC and Brad Jones Racing have unveiled the new-look livery that Jason Bright will carry on his #8 Holden Commodore in the 2012 V8 Supercars Championship.

The coming season marks BOC’s 10th year of sponsoring Brad Jones Racing, a partnership which began in 2003 when Andrew Jones won funding for his V8 Supercars Development Series car, taking the series title the following year.

To celebrate the milestone, the new look draws its inspiration from previous BOC Commodores, most notably that of the car that the late Jason Richards drove in 2009.

Entering his third year with the team, Bright will again drive the same Commodore that delivered BJR its first wins in V8 Supercars last year at Barbagallo and Winton.

After struggling with a poor run of form in mid-season and then missing three races with a broken rib, Bright went on to finish last season in 16th, but both BJR and BOC are optimistic that Bright can deliver in 2012.

“Last year was pretty special for me to be able to deliver BOC its first couple of wins after their long standing support,” Bright said.

“They can rest assured that in 2012 I am aiming even higher than just a couple of wins and I look forward to working with them along the way.”

BOC’s general manager Bruce Currie added: “BOC is both proud and excited to be entering its 10th year supporting Team BOC in V8 Supercars,”

“This significant milestone is testament to the strong relationship the team has built over the years with our employees and our customers. We really hope that 2012 can be a fabulous year for all involved.”

The 2012 BOC livery will be on show at the official test day at Sandown on 11 February.

David Wall's WSR #21 Holden V8 Supercar Photo credit: Brad Jones Racing

David Wall will make his full-time debut in the 2012 V8 Supercars Championship following confirmation of his drive with Brad Jones Racing.

After co-driving with BJR for the past two years in the V8 endurance seasons, Wall replaces Karl Reindler and is set to make his full-time entry in the three-car squad alongside new team-mates Jason Bright and Fabian Coulthard.

 “I can’t believe this opportunity has actually come together,” said the Sydney-based driver.

“I have worked with BJR for the past two years in the enduros so I know how committed they are.

“The whole crew and engineering team is a great group to work with and I am looking forward to putting everything I have into this opportunity. I think it is awesome to be joining Brighty, Fabian and the BJR crew.”

Wall, who was rookie of the year in the 2006 Carrera Cup Championship, won back-to-back Australian GT Championships in 2009 and 2010.

Security company, Wilson Security, who sponsored Tony D’Alberto Racing last year, will be the primary backer of Wall’s #21 Commodore, with additional support from Payce, Paynter Dixon and Astrontech.

Wilson Security CEO John McMellan, also announced additional branding presence on all the BJR cars this year. Speaking about the deal, he said: “2012 will see Wilson Security both further expand and consolidate its presence within V8 Supercars.

“We’ve always focused on young, developing drivers like Wall who are traditionally with non-factory teams because, in business, we know you need a level of quality ‘personal’ service where the customer deals with the decision maker.

“Having three of the cars that we will be associated with in 2012 together is also an obvious real positive for us.”

Wall will have his first opportunity to drive his new car on 11 February at Sandown, at the V8 Supercars’ official test day.

Nine winners of 2011, and tributes to two who lost their lives aiming to join them

The twelve months of 2011 have been twelve months of contrasts, a twelve months packed with the highest of highs and the lowest of lows. Now, having looked back over the previous year the writers of The Checkered Flag look forward at what the 2012 racing season could bring with new driver line-ups and regulations.

Peter Allen

Intra-team battles ad Force India and Toro Rosso
The two midfield F1 squads have gone with potential over experience for their 2012 driver lineups. The stakes are potentially very high for the drivers at both teams, with Paul di Resta and Nico Hulkenberg eyeing any seat that becomes available at Mercedes, while Daniel Ricciardo and Jean-Eric Vergne will fight it out to become Mark Webber’s replacement at Red Bull. All four are highly-rated, and it will be fascinating to see what happens at both teams.

Toro Rosso teammates and F1 new boys Daniel Ricciardo and Jean-Eric Vergne - one battle to watch in 2012

David Bean

Someone to match Vettel?
Sticking to F1, most fans will be looking for the emergence of a challenger to Sebastian Vettel and Red Bull. Will one of the McLaren pairing, or even Fernando Alonso at Ferrari, be able to stop next season becoming as one-sided as it was in 2011? It will also be interesting to see how Kimi Räikkönen and Romain Grosjean do at Renault, and how the exciting young talent – the likes of Daniel Ricciardo, Jean-Eric Vergne and Charles Pic – manage in their first full seasons as F1 drivers.

Josh Bell

Formula One 2012
I have two, so forgive me for being greedy. The battle at Toro Rosso between their new driver line up of Daniel Ricciardo and Jean-Eric Vergne will be extremely intense, particularly as one of them may land themselves a Red Bull seat if Mark Webber departs at the end of 2012. Secondly, I am optimistic of five teams challenging for the Formula One World Championship next season. Or maybe I am just a romantic? Merry Christmas readers!

James Broomhead

NGTC comes of age
Nationally I think the BTCC is headed for another superb year. The second half of the year was the NGTC-spec cars coming out party, and in 2012 it will be interesting to see some more of the potential of the new cars when Honda roll out the new Civic. How their efforts – with Matt Neal and Gordon Shedden compare to the teams with a whole year of NGTC trouble-shooting behind them – is just another facet in a year that could bring even more manufacturers in even bigger grids.  

Andy Champness

Challengers to Team Vodafone
The V8 Supercars has again shown it’s the best touring car series in the world, so more of the same please! Team Vodafone dominated the 2011 season, but I think teams such as Stone Brothers Racing and Ford Performance Racing will up their game and close the gap in 2012. Look out for the likes of Tim Slade, David Reynolds and in particular Shane van Gisbergen who this year won his first race at his home event in New Zealand and backed it up in Darwin to finish fourth in this year’s championship. These are the sport’s new generation, young drivers who showed in 2011 that they have the talent and ability to pose a genuine threat to the more established stars.

Mark Foley

The Young(er) Blood
Formula Renault 2.0 champion Alex Lynn and the imaginatively named Carlos Sainz Jr. join the ranks of British Formula 3 for 2012, and both could be potential headaches for the more experienced British F3 runners cracking their knuckles as they eye the 2012 title. Lynn has BRDC and FIA Excellence Academy support behind him, whilst Sainz Jr. comes ominously armed with Red Bull backing, adding pressure, removing excuses and drawing plenty of keen eyes onto the youngsters tipped for future stardom.

Formula Renault UK champion Alex Lynn - one of the drivers set to make the 2012 British Formula Three Championship a year to remember

Chris Gurton

What To Look For Next Year – National racing and beyond
For me there are a number of things to look for next year. After the teething troubles of the new NGTC cars in the BTCC, a more level playing field next season and a big field should lead to an exciting championship. On the subject of touring cars, it will be interesting to see how Arena Motorsport and Special Tuning Racing cope with the step up to WTCC.

After an extremely close fought title battle in British GT, next seasons Championship will no doubt be an equally exciting and close fight. Look out for the new look Ginetta G55 GT3 and the Aston Martin V12 Vantage adding to the array of stunning cars throughout the field. For fans of endurance racing, the new World Endurance Championships should be something to look out for too.

Also, with driver moves and deals still being confirmed within Formula One, an exciting new driver to keep an eye out for is Jean Eric-Vergne. The Frenchman showed true class in the 2010 British F3 Championships on his way to the title and runner up at the end of a season in formula Renault 3.5 has shown his ability. With the backing and support of Red Bull, could he be the new Sebastian Vettel? 

Leigh O’Gorman

What To Look For In 2012 – The World Endurance Championship
The emergence of the World Endurance Championship may not just be “the thing to look for in 2012”, but rather the biggest motorsport news of the decade. Since the WEC was announced at Le Mans, manufacturers have either thrown their hat into the ring or are weighing up future participation in a series that may – realistically – have far more relevance to the automotive industry than Formula 1 could ever dream of. Also, a nod to Tony Fernandes, who continues to raise the profile of motor racing in Asia, by organising national and club championships in emerging territories.

Simon Paice

What to look for in 2012 -Ginetta Juniors
In 2012, I’m really excited for the Ginetta Junior Championship. 2011 saw the teenage racers once again produce superb racing and while Seb Morris dominated, the likes of Niall Murray, Charlie Robertson, George Gamble and Sennan Fielding emerged as top talent. With some of them returning to join the usual influx of exciting new rookies, it is sure to be a fascinating, must watch 2012 season in the G40′s.

Also something I’m really looking forward to seeing is Petter Solberg in a Ford in the WRC, taking it to the Citroens and hopefully picking up a second world title.

Vince Pettit

British Superbikes
The 2012 season in British Superbikes looks set to be another great championship battle, defending champion joined by Isle of Man record breaker Ian Hutchinson, the Swan Yamaha team will be hard to beat. Although with that said that the PBM squad have assembled a strong team with the likes of Shakey Byrne and Stuart Easton. TAS Suzuki will also feature with Alastair Seeley looking to continue his momentum in the main class after securing the National Superstock 1000 and British Supersport titles in 2009 and this season respectively.

Louis Suddaby

A New Era Begins
2012 sees the introduction of CRT (Claiming Rule Teams) in MotoGP and a glimpse into the future of the premier class of motorcycle racing. Don’t expect too much too soon but this new philosophy had to happen, if anything to give us more bikes to look at. Moto3 will replace the 125cc class and unpredictability is the only certainty while EVO rules will now effectively be standard in the British Superbike Championship, surely producing another open season. 2012 will also be a huge year for Valentino Rossi. Surely Ducati will get it right this time?

Scott Wilkes

New regulations in BTCC and MotoGP
In the BTCC, the NGTC cars that started to make a surge to the front of the pack at the end of this season should be a preview of what’s to come this season, and it should be an even better season for close racing than we have just seen.

In MotoGP, the withdrawal of Suzuki and the arrival of the CRT machines should herald the start of an interesting shakeup in the sport. With the addition of the new standardised Moto3 series replacing the 125cc Championship, I am expecting the same level of competition as we saw in the spectacular Moto2 championship this year.

As for a rider/driver to look out for, it has to be Marc Marquez. After a poor start to last season, I wasn’t expecting much more from the young Spaniard. However, as happens most times with myself, I was proved wrong, and Marquez started a brilliant resurgence which left him a position to possibly win the championship at the final race, only to be ruled out by injury.

Jason Richards 1976 - 2011

After a brave 14-month battle against cancer, veteran V8 Supercars driver Jason Richards died on Thursday night.

The New Zealander, who has driven in the V8 Supercars Championship since 2000, passed away peacefully at his family home after succumbing to Adreno Cortical Carcinoma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer, with which he was first diagnosed in November last year.

Richards, aged 35, raced for several Holden teams in the V8 series – Team Kiwi Racing, Team Dynamik, Tasman Motorsport and most recently Brad Jones Racing. He scored three Bathurst 1000 podiums with Jamie Whincup (2005), Greg Murphy (2008) and Andrew Jones (2009) and won three New Zealand touring car championships prior to moving into the Australian V8 series in 2000.

Richards stepped down from his full-time drive after the diagnosis to undergo treatment and focus his energies on fighting his illness, but still took part in several co-driver practice sessions and tested the Brad Jones Racing #8 Team BOC Commodore in-between treatments. He also won an emotional race in a one-off appearance in the Fujitsu V8 Supercar Series in Adelaide for Greg Murphy Racing. In October, he drove in the popular Touring Car Masters category at the Bathurst 1000, finishing as runner-up for the round which was met with huge acclaim up and down pit lane. He also returned for a one-off appearance in the non-championship V8 Supercars event – the Albert Park 400, claiming a brilliant second place in race two.

In a statement released earlier today, Brad Jones Racing paid tribute to the talented driver:

“In the competitive world of V8 Supercars Jason was a rare breed – a driver that could tread the fine line between rivalry and friendship. He was never secretive, selfish or bad-tempered and had endless enthusiasm and energy for his job and team.

The history books will not do him justice. Given the right equipment JR was easily a front-runner but chose team loyalty over personal gain, determined to work with his crew to reach the front of the grid together.

Through the highs and lows of racing, JR’s uplifting presence and casual, self-effacing wit were unwavering and his effect he had on team morale is irreplaceable.

He will forever be a member of the Jones family and this is a tragic day in the team’s history.”

2011 V8 Supercars Champion Jamie Whincup Photo credit: V8 Supercars Media

Jamie Whincup survived carnage and chaos to seal his third V8 Supercar Championship at the Sydney Telstra 500 in an incident-packed 250km second race won by Orrcon Steel FPR’s Mark Winterbottom.

In a gripping final race of the year on the Sydney Olympic Park street circuit, TeamVodafone team-mate and Championship rival Craig Lowndes stormed through to second place, but it wasn’t enough to bridge the gap as Whincup finished in eighth to take the title by just 35 points.

Whincup joins the late Peter Brock and Craig Lowndes as a three-time champion on the honour roll and becomes only the second driver in history to win a championship with both Ford and Holden.

“It’s been such a long year and a long week to be honest. (This) probably won’t sink in until the week later,” said Whincup.

“It was great to see my dad there at end of the race, and obviously the whole team- we’ve gone through thick and thin.”

“I’ve never driven so soft before just trying to get clean air and stay out of the carnage! To finally get there is an unbelievable feeling.”

With rain falling right up to within an hour of the race start, all the cars bar the fifth-placed The Bottle-O Racing Team FPR Falcon of Paul Dumbrell, lined up on the grid with wet tyres. However, with more than half the field diving in for slicks at the end of the formation lap, just a handful of cars, including front row starters, double pole-sitter Trading Post FPR’s Will Davison and Whincup, to take the start proper.

Dumbrell showed that slicks were the right move as conditions improved, and before a dozen laps had been run, the leaders all pitted. Having to stack behind his team-mate, Whincup lost time allowing Wilson Security Racing/Team McGrath’s Tony D’Alberto, Pepsi Max Crew’s Greg Murphy and Winterbottom to take up the top positions – with Winterbottom taking the lead on lap 16 before a safety car deployment on lap 25 for the stricken Gulf Western Oil Racing Commodore of Warren Luff saw the entire field take to the pitlane.

The leading contenders elected not to pit under a second Safety Car, after D’Alberto’s suspension failure on lap 33 led to heavy impact with the barriers. But 14 laps later, a clash between Jack Daniels Racing’s Todd Kelly and Toll Holden Racing Team’s Garth Tander brought out the third safety car as the marshals collected the debris from Tander’s exhaust. With everyone pitting again, Lowndes emerged in eighth, but Whincup, forced to queue behind his team-mate dropped down to 18th.

The pair again made their way through the pack after the restart, with Whincup passing Jason Bright, for 12th on lap 60, after the Team BOC driver had been spun by Mother Energy Racing Team’s Jonathon Webb. This was the key position from which Whincup needed to secure the Championship, no matter where Lowndes finished.

With just four laps remaining, Will Davison again failed to finish when he buried his car in the turn 8 tyre wall as he misjudged a passing move on SP Tools Racing’s Shane van Gisbergen. On the same lap, Dumbrell in his final V8 Supercars race, spun while running second and was t-boned by Team Fujitsu’s Lee Holdsworth – eliminating both from the race and from podium contention. Lowndes narrowly avoided the crash but in doing so, moved up into second place. The incident prompted a third safety car appearance and set up a final dramatic two-lap sprint to the finish. Winterbottom managed to hold off Lowndes by just 0.7s to take the 28th and final race of the season. The win also meant Winterbottom took third in the final standings, ahead of van Gisbergen and Tander, as well as the honour of being the highest-finishing Ford driver this year.

Mark Winterbottom Race 2 Sydney Telstra 500 Photo credit: V8 Supercars Media

“It’s a great effort by the boys, we’ve really turned this season around,” said Winterbottom.

“This is a big event for us, Sydney is my childhood home and I’m absolutely rapt.”

Lowndes, who claimed a 1-2 finish for TeamVodafone in this year’s Driver’s Championship, said: “It was one of those moments today, it was all about not holding back and we had hell of race.”

“Credit has to go to Jamie, he’s done everything right, and to all our guys – what a year!” he added.

Van Gisbergen rounded out the podium finishing third for the second time in two days. Mother Energy Racing’s Jonathon Webb was fourth, with Supercheap Auto Racing’s Russell Ingall ending his time with Paul Morris Motorsport with a top five finish. Fujitsu Racing’s Michael Caruso, Toll Holden Racing Team’s James Courtney and Whincup finished sixth, seventh and eighth respectively. Despite being crashed into twice, Team BOC’s Jason Bright finished ninth with Lucky 7 Racing’s Tim Slade completing the top ten.

The 2012 International V8 Supercars Championship will kick off on Australian soil with the Clipsal 500 in Adelaide on March 1-4.

Race 28 results:

Craig Lowndes Sydney Telstra 500 Photo credit: V8 Supercars Media

Victory for Craig Lowndes at the Sydney Telstra 500 has ensured the battle for the V8 Supercars Championship will go down to the final race, as trouble for rival Team Vodafone team-mate Jamie Whincup saw his Championship lead cut to 83 points with 150 points up for grabs.

After a spin in his top-ten qualifying shootout lap left him starting from tenth and five places behind Whincup, Lowndes appeared out of contention. Undeterred though, he worked his way through the order not stopping when pole-sitter, Ford Performance Racing’s Will Davison lost control and fired into the tyre wall on lap 11, triggering the first safety car. The pivotal moment came about when Whincup, climbing back through the field after the restart, clipped a curb on lap 24.  Damaging the right damper he was forced to pit for repairs. The pitcrew worked frantically to get the car back out, but his race became a salvage operation after he re-emerged at the back of the field four laps down. The Championship leader limped home in 20th position, picking up 45 points.

With Orrcon Steel Ford Performance Racing’s Mark Winterbottom receiving an unmerited pit lane drive-through penalty after making contact with the rear of Pepsi Max Crew’s Greg Murphy’s car on lap 32, Lowndes moved up to fourth. Ten laps later he passed Jack Daniels Racing’s Rick Kelly for second, behind Fujitsu Racing GRM’s Michael Caruso. Lowndes hounded Caruso for ten laps after a third safety car deployment, before seizing the lead on lap 61. Having to conserve fuel, he just held off Toll Holden Racing Team’s Garth Tander in a thrilling finish to take the win by 0.8s, his first victory on the Sydney street circuit.

“The car’s been sensational, but I was down on myself after qualifying,” said Lowndes.

“I knew we had a lot more in it. There has been a lot of carnage out there, but it was a hell of a race and we got the job done. I’ll try and have a good sleep tonight!”

With the majority of the field running low on fuel in the final laps, the action was far from over. With Caruso running out of fuel on the last lap, Tander capitalised, passing with just a couple of corners to go. Slowing dramatically, Caruso was then hit by Shane van Gisbergen on the last corner, momentarily sending the SP Tools Racing Falcon into the air. Amazingly, both drivers crossed the finishing line with van Gisbergen grabbing the final podium spot.

Winterbottom, who had been seventh with ten laps to go kept charging, and as the leading pack battled to finish with enough fuel, he snatched fifth on the final lap to retain third in the championship, despite his nearest championship rivals finishing in the two places ahead of him.

Lucky 7 Racing’s Tim Slade, Toll Holden Racing Team’s James Courtney, Jim Beam Racing’s James Moffat, finished sixth, seventh and eighth respectively, with Jack Daniels Racing’s Todd Kelly and Rick Kelly rounding out the top-ten. Rick Kelly had been on target for third place, but had to pit with just one lap to go for a fuel top up.

The 2011 V8 Supercars season-ending 250km race takes place on Sunday 4 December, with another 20-minute qualifying session beforehand to determine the final grid.

Race 27 results: