Ford Performance Racing has confirmed that reigning Formula Ford Champion Chaz Mostert will drive for its team in the final two rounds of the Fujitsu V8 Supercars Series at Sandown and Homebush.
As first revealed by Speedcafe.com, the factory Ford team will suit up in an ex-Mark Winterbottom Falcon after leaving Miles Racing.
FPR is using the races to evaluate Mostert with a view to entering the 19-year-old in the full Development Series next year.
Mostert will be engineered by FPR stalwart David Paterson who has worked with Paul Dumbrell across the last two seasons.
FPR Team Principal Tim Edwards says Mostert’s progression from karts to open-wheelers and V8 Supercars has been impressive and warrants a closer look.
“Chaz’s record in the junior ranks is impressive and to this point in his career he has attained results similar to those achieved by a young Mark Winterbottom, so he certainly has all the right foundations for a career in V8 Supercars,” Edwards said.
“We always watch the Development Series races to see what talent is emerging and in his first season Chaz has shown glimpses of brilliance, especially in the wet, against much more experienced opposition.
“By no means do we have anything locked away beyond these last two races of the year but we have a spare car so we thought it was the ideal opportunity to see up close what Chaz can do.
“We are doing so with a view to a long-term relationship so now he just has to make the most of the chance we’ve presented him with.”
FPR has been involved with a Development Series entry on two previous occasions, most recently last season where it prepared the car driven by James Moffat.
Mostert, who enjoys a personal sponsorship deal with Monster Energy, is grateful to Edwards and FPR for providing him with the opportunity.
“I am really ecstatic to be working with FPR. I have dreamed about driving for the factory Ford team since I started racing so to be part of it, even for a couple of races, is just amazing,” Mostert said.
“I’ve grown up liking Fords, won the Formula Ford series and have raced a Falcon all year so to now be in a factory-prepared car is great. My job is to learn as much as I can and bring the car home straight.
“I also want to thank Miles Racing as without their efforts I would not be in the position I find myself in. My plan now is to make FPR proud and secure a seat with them next year.”
