Lester lands Fuji Super GT drive

Jono Lester will make his competitive Super GT debut with Direction Racing at Japan’s Fuji International Speedway next month.

The Kiwi GT specialist has been keen to explore the popular Japanese series after securing a test with the GT300 class outfit at Suzuka last month.

After a successful outing, the 26-year-old has now struck a deal with Direction Racing to pilot a GT300 specification Lamborghini Huracan in round four of the series from August 6-7.

Lester drives for the same outfit in the Lamborghini Super Trofeo Asia Series.

While the deal is a one-off at this stage, the former Australian GT driver is hopeful he can forge a career in the championship.

“This opportunity is one I’ve been working towards since 2012 and I’m buzzing with excitement right now,” said Lester.

“In our short time together the Direction Racing team and I have shared success.

“They are looking for a young driver to mould for SuperGT and Lamborghini in the long term, and I’m honoured to have been chosen for this.”

Lester will become the second New Zealander on the grid joining Nick Cassidy, who competes for Lexus in the top GT500 class.