Stanaway Supercars deal finally confirmed
Richie Stanaway's spot on the Supercars grid has finally been confirmed, the Kiwi formally announced as part of Prodrive Racing Australia's line-up for the 2018 season.
Photo by: Daniel Kalisz / Motorsport Images
As widely expected, Stanaway will take over the fourth seat at PRA alongside Chaz Mostert, Mark Winterbottom, and Cam Waters.
His entry will be underpinned by an ex-LD Motorsport Racing Entitlements Contract, obtained as part of the sale of a chassis to the new 23Red Racing squad.
“Obviously it’s good to have everything ready,” said Stanaway.
“It’s been coming along for a while, but it’s good to finally have the deal done.
"It’s been a childhood dream for me to race in Supercars, so it’s great to check that off the bucket list.”
Stanaway has made a splash in Supercars with two years worth of star co-driving roles within the PRA outfit, including a sensational Sandown 500 win back in September, and a Super2 race win during a one-off start in Sydney.
However, despite the hype Stanaway is keeping his expectations for next season in check.
“The first objective is always just to get into the series,” he said.
“But there’s a big difference between participating in the sport and being successful. I’m aware that I’ve got a long road ahead of me and a lot to learn, but I’m really motivated.
"I’m putting my best foot forward, and want to learn as much as I possibly can in my rookie season. I’m expecting it to be tough, that’s just a realistic approach.”
It will be his first full season in one category since 2014, with the deal described as 'multi year'.
“It’s been so long since I’ve had a proper full-time, long time project to commit myself to," added Stanaway.
"It makes a big difference in my mind set, and it’s an opportunity I’m really grateful for. I’m really thankful that the team have believed in me and not only given me the chance to co-drive for a couple years, but given me the amazing opportunity to come and drive full-time.”
According to PRA boss Tim Edwards, Stanaway's signing bolsters the already impressive driver roster.
“Having Richie join the team really completes the package for us," said Edwards.
"We’ll head into 2018 with four great drivers in four fast cars, and we believe we’ll be a threat to win any time out.
"We’ve elevated our expectations for next season, and we can’t wait to hit the track.”
Stanaway is the second last piece of the silly season puzzle to be officially locked into place, with Jack Le Brocq's spot at Tekno expected to be confirmed in the near future.
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