Fabian Coulthard will join Scott Pye in an expanded two-car DJR Team Penske line-up next season, the team has announced.
The news doubles as confirmation that Marcos Ambrose will not return in a full-time capacity, having stepped down from the role in March.
“Expanding to two cars has always been a priority of ours, and with Fabian on board, gives us the opportunity to add another car capable of running at the front,” said Tim Cindric, Team Penske President.
The team leased its second Racing Entitlements Contract to Super Black Racing this season after scaling down to one car amid Team Penske’s majority takeover of Dick Johnson Racing.
Coulthard is currently ranked fifth in the V8 Supercars Championship standings, driving for Brad Jones Racing.
“I’m excited about 2016 and coming aboard at DJR Team Penske,” said the 33-year-old, whose current race engineer Phil Keed will move with him next year.
“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.”
Ambrose added his endorsement of the line-up via a team statement.
“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.”
The decision to run two cars is a lifeline for Pye, who had looked in danger of missing out on a seat despite his efforts this year.
“It’s a fantastic opportunity to continue racing for Dick and Roger again in 2016,” he said.
“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.”
Coulthard has been assigned the #12 while Pye will continue to campaign the iconic #17.
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