Ambrose to make V8s return in Sydney
Dual V8 Supercars champion Marcos Ambrose will make a shock return to Australia for this year’s season finale in Sydney.
The 38-year-old, who will return from the United States for next year’s V8 championship, will drive a Dick Johnson Racing/Team Penske-backed wildcard entry for the Sydney 500 at Homebush from December 5-7.
It will be Ambrose’s first appearance in a V8 Supercar since departing Australia in 2006 to pursue a career in the American NASCAR championship.
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Ambrose will complete his NASCAR commitments before heading Down Under to take part in the event at the Sydney Olympic Park street circuit.
“I have never driven there, so it will be not only a bonus to do some really good long races, but it also gives me a good look at the track,” Ambrose said.
He’s back: Marcus Ambrose will be back in a Supercar next season. Photo: Getty
“It will be a fantastic way to kick off our preparations for DJR Team Penske in 2015 and I am really looking forward to getting stuck into it.”
V8s chief executive James Warburton said Penske’s decision to make an early arrival was a welcome one.
“Motorsport fans were blown away with DJR Team Penske joining the Championship so it’s fantastic to see Marcos is joining us earlier than expected in Sydney,” Warburton said.
The 2003 and 2004 V8s champion will arrive in Australia in November and have a test run before the Sydney event.
“This is a great opportunity to give Marcos a good hitout in one of the DJR Falcons before the Clipsal 500 next year,” Dick Johnson said.
“The Sydney 500 is an ideal way for him to not only get a feel for the car, but also an early opportunity to work with the DJR engineers and crew.”
Ambrose’s teammate for the 2015 campaign is also expected to be announced at the Sydney race.