AUSTRALIA: In an exciting development for motorsport enthusiasts, the reigning Bathurst 1000 winner, Garth Tander, is all set to continue his long-standing partnership with the Melbourne Performance Centre Audi squad this year. Tander’s return will mark his first GT appearance of the season, adding another layer of intrigue to the racing landscape.
Tander is poised to team up with series leader Liam Talbot at Queensland Raceway, stepping in as a replacement for Talbot’s regular co-driver, Fraser Ross, who is unfortunately unavailable for this event.
Tander’s enthusiasm for the opportunity was evident as he shared, “I’ve had a long relationship with Melbourne Performance Centre, and earlier this year they asked if there was an opening, would I be keen to drive, and of course, I said yes.”
While Tander acknowledges that he hasn’t been behind the wheel of the GT car this year, he is confident that the extended practice sessions will provide ample time for him to acclimate. His recent driving experiences, including ride days, Supercars testing, and a Porsche test day, have bolstered his confidence for the upcoming race.
Reflecting on his role in the race, Tander emphasized, “My role is not about me doing laps; it’s about solidifying Liam’s position in the title.” He expressed his commitment to supporting Talbot and maintaining his approach to aiding the AM driver’s performance.
This GT appearance is just a precursor to another exciting event on Tander’s horizon: a cameo appearance in the Carrera Cup at The Bend Motorsport Park later this month. The racer’s versatility and dedication to the sport are evident in his varied engagements.
Joining Tander on the track, Broc Feeney, a driver for Triple Eight, will also make a return to the Australian GT field. He will replace Richie Stanaway in the two-car Mercedes lineup, partnering with Prince Jefri Ibrahim.
Jamie Whincup will continue alongside Prince Abu Ibrahim. Furthermore, at Queensland Raceway, Nash Morris is set to make his second appearance in the Michelin Sprint Challenge.
Morris’s impressive debut at SMP, where he secured a pair of wins, has piqued curiosity about his performance in the upcoming race. As the racing season heats up, these developments promise high-octane action and unforgettable moments for fans of motorsport.
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