The Carrera Cup Australia’s first season with Porsche’s new Type 991 will get underway with a 23 car grid in Adelaide.

Porsche Cars Australia has confirmed the full entry list, which is bigger than that seen at any round last year.

As previously reported, the Pro Class is headlined by the return of four-time and reigning champion Craig Baird.

Fellow experienced hands Warren Luff, Steven Richards and Michael Patrizi return to the series, as do second year drivers Shae Davies, Duvashen Padayachee and Renee Gracie.

Nick Foster is back following a season in Formula 3, while the top category is completed by Foster’s Sonic Motor Racing Services team-mate Nick McBride and GT3 Cup Challenge graduate Michael Almond.

The list of 12 Elite (amateur) Class entries that fill out the field includes Australian GT convert Roger Lago.

“We’re delighted to come into the 10th season of Carrera Cup with such a strong field,” said PCA motorsport manager Cameron McConville.

“Having 23 brand new race cars on the grid at the Clipsal 500 is a huge success for the championship and a fitting way to celebrate this significant milestone.

“We also have a tremendous group of teams and drivers who have committed to the season. There are 13 drivers who have returned to the category from last year, while we welcome 10 drivers who are either new to Carrera Cup or return after a previous stint in the series.

“The importance of an even mix of Professional Class and Elite Class drivers is again not lost on the championship with a close-to 50/50 split between the two classes.”

See below for the full entry list

See below for Porsche Cars Australia’s Clipsal 500 event preview video