Dunlop Series regular Drew Russell has been appointed as Stone Brothers Racing’s official reserve driver for V8 Supercars’ endurance races at Sandown and Bathurst.
The 24-year-old Novacastrian will join the three-time V8 Supercars champions as cover for the drivers of the team’s three Falcon entries and could be in a position to make if V8 Supercars Championship debut if illness or injury prevent Shane van Gisbergen/ Luke Youlden (SP Tools Racing), Lee Holdsworth/Craig Baird (IRWIN Racing) or Tim Slade/Andrew Thompson (Lucky 7 Racing) from making the starting grid.
“Joining Stone Brothers Racing as its reserve driver for Sandown and Bathurst is a great opportunity,” Russell said.
“Obviously I don’t want to wish any misfortune on Shane, Luke, Lee, Craig, Tim or Andrew, and if all goes to plan I won’t be needed. If I am required, I’ll be ready, but even just to be a part of the team for two of the biggest races of the year will be a big thrill.”
Alongside younger brother Aaren, Drew Russell tested the SBR-built Falcon of Dunlop Series driver Scott McLaughlin (then run in-house by SBR) at Queensland Raceway in May.
Last month, Novocastrian Motorsport announced a deal to purchase two current-specification FG Falcons from the team for use as part of a three-car line-up in the 2013 series. CLICK HERE for Speedcafe.com’s past story.
Russell current sits 10th in the 2012 Dunlop V8 Supercar Series
, with the next round to be held at Mount Panorama, Bathurst on October 4-6.