DJR Team Penske has confirmed it has signed Fabian Coulthard for the 2016 V8 Supercars season, and that Scott Pye will stay on in a second DJRTP entry.
As has been heavily rumoured recently, Coulthard will join the Queensland-based squad after a four-year stint at Brad Jones Racing.
The 33-year-old Kiwi recently confirmed he would be parting ways with BJR, after being touted as the key to the 2016 silly season for much of the year so far.
“I’m excited about 2016 and coming aboard at DJR Team Penske,” said Coulthard.
“The chance to race for two motorsport legends like Dick Johnson and Roger Penske is just a special opportunity.
“I’m looking forward to next season and helping the team grow and race at the front of the field.”
Expansion confirmed, Pye retained
The team has also confirmed that it will expand to two cars for the 2016 season.
Having this year leased its second Racing Entitlements Contract to Super Black Racing, the team will run two Falcons next year, with current driver Scott Pye to be retained for the new season.
“Expanding to two cars has always been a priority of ours,” said Team Penske President Tim Cindric, “and with Fabian on board, gives us the opportunity to add another car capable of running at the front.”
“It’s a fantastic opportunity to continue racing for Dick and Roger again in 2016,” added Pye.
“This year has had some ups and downs, but we have been moving in the right direction.
“Expanding to two cars with Fabian is incredibly exciting. He’s a hard-nosed racer and together we want to build DJR Team Penske into a contender.”
Ambrose, SBR out in the cold
The news confirms that Marcos Ambrose won’t be returning as a full-time DJRTP driver next year, having made the decision to step aside three race meetings in to his V8 Supercars comeback after to returning to Australia at the end of last year.
“I fully support the team with the exciting announcements here today,” said Ambrose.
“My number one priority since stepping out of the car full time was helping the team with that transition and in Fabian and Scotty, the team has a great future ahead for 2016 and beyond.”
It also means Super Black will need a new REC for the 2016 season. The Prodrive Racing-run squad has already confirmed it will be on the grid next season, and must now lease or buy a REC.
