Russell looks to progress European GT career

David Russell sees his ADAC GT Masters call up as a valuable opportunity to progress his career in Europe.

The Brisbane-based driver has been selected to line up alongside former F1 driver Tomas Enge at top German GT outfit Reiter Engineering for two rounds of the hotly contested series.

Russell’s two race stint begins with a trip to the Red Bull Ring this weekend followed by a run at Belgium’s Spa-Francorchamps on June 19-21.

Impressive performances at the Bathurst 12 Hour have helped secure the opportunity to race the Reiter Lamborghini Gallardo.

Russell has replaced previous driver Nick Catsburg, who has joined the Lada WTCC squad at Moscow.

Having worked hard to establish himself on the world stage, Russell says he plans to make the most of the chance as he bids to secure more drives in Europe.

During the month long trip, he will take in the prestigious Le Mans 24 Hours endurance classic where he is due to meet up with the Aston Martin factory team he tested for in February.

“It is nice that they (Reiter Engineering) have got faith in me to bring me over when they could have chosen guys closer to the team in Europe,” Russell told Speedcafe.com.

“For me its a big step in keeping my name out there on the world stage in terms of GT racing.

“I have certainly made no secrets about wanting to further a career in sportscars and GT racing this is just a part of that.

“Hopefully the momentum continues to get to more races next year and that is the plan. If things come up with Reiter again then that would be an opportunity.

“I’ve already received a couple of emails from different team owners saying that its great I’m coming over to Europe. It gives them a chance to see how things pan out.

“In the time I’m over there, the weekend after Red Bull Ring is Le Mans so I’m very excited about that.

“I’m catching up with a few guys over there and I have already had some correspondence with Aston Martin so we will definitely head over and see those guys.”

Russell is due to return to Australia for the latest round of the Porsche Carrera Cup Australia at Townsville (July 10-12), before heading back to Europe for the Spa 24 Hours with Lago Racing on July 23-26.