Carrera Cup ace Matt Campbell will make his V8 Supercars debut in this year’s Pirtek Enduro Cup with Nissan Motorsport.
The team has announced that the 21-year-old will share the #7 Carsales Altima with team co-owner and former Supercheap Auto Bathurst 1000 winner Todd Kelly.
Campbell tested Kelly’s Nissan at Winton in February and is again behind the wheel today as the squad completes its second hit-out of the season at the rural Victorian venue.
Nissan has now confirmed two drivers for its enduro campaign, with Dean Fiore already locked in to return alongside Michael Caruso.
“We’ve been following Matt’s progress and he’s really stood out in his Porsche,” said Kelly of Campbell.
“After the previous test day we were all blown away with how good a job he did straight away. He was not only fast but also reliable, and he didn’t put a foot wrong.
“We’d been working with Matt and his people since then, so it’s great to be able to announce him as our driver for the endurances races.”
Although yet to race a V8 Supercar, Campbell’s previous Mount Panorama experience includes starring in the practice sessions aboard the Objective Racing McLaren at this year’s Bathurst 12 Hour.
Campbell is currently in his second season of Carrera Cup having won Class B of the GT3 Cup Challenge in 2014.
“I’m really happy to be part of Nissan Motorsport for the endurance races this year,” said Campbell.
“Todd has a lot of knowledge behind him, so hopefully I can learn as much as I can and fast track my learning experience.
“Bathurst is the biggest race in Australian motorsport; to be a part of it is an amazing opportunity from Nissan Motorsport and a dream come true.
“The differences in handling characteristics between my Carrera Cup car and the Nissan V8 Supercar will require a change of technique. With the help of Nissan Motorsport, I’m sure I’ll be able to get up to speed.
“My goals now are to hone down my driving of the car, to get more miles, and simply to get to know the car better.
“The first opportunity was great to get behind the wheel and drive the car, this test it is time to really knuckle down and get more familiar with everything.”
Also testing with the squad today are Russell Ingall and team stalwart David Russell.
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