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.
