Bathurst winner Harvey’s grandson joins development program

John Harvey’s grandson Emerson Harvey has become a Volante Rosso junior development driver as he bids to switch from karts to car racing next season.

The 15-year-old is currently a karter and will be present with Volante Rosso for selected Carrera Cup rounds for the remainder of the year.

Volante Rosso, the automotive/motorsport workshop of Sydney-based former Formula 1 engineer Chris Papadopoulos, entered Porsche Wilson Security Carrera Cup for the first time this year.

“We have kept an eye on the karting scene for a while and Emerson has impressed us on many levels,” said Papadopoulos.

“There is no doubt he is quick behind the wheel but he also shows a calm and professional approach to his motorsport and there is no doubt he is extremely passionate and eager to learn.

“Of course it’d be great to see Emerson grow into our Carrera Cup program but for now we are focused on his karting and preparing him for making the next step.”

According to a release from the team, Harvey will be “involved in engineering meetings, data analysis, his fitness, mental preparation and all other elements to get him ready for cars.”

Volante Rosso will also offer ‘two outstanding drivers’ from the 2018 CAMS Payce Formula 4 Championship a test in its Carrera Cup car later this year.

Emerson Harvey is currently competing in the SP Tools Australian Kart Championship, presented by Castrol Edge KA2 class.

John Harvey won the 1983 Bathurst 1000 and the first race of the inaugural World Touring Car Championship in 1987, achievements which contributed to his induction into the Australian Motor Sport Hall of Fame presented by Speedcafe.com in March.

Cameron Shields sits atop the Formula 4 table after two rounds, with the next at Coates Hire Ipswich SuperSprint on July 20-22.