After missing out on securing a V8 Supercars co-drive, Steven Johnson will return to Bathurst this weekend after completing a deal to contest the Touring Car Masters.

The son of touring car legend Dick Johnson will once again jump aboard John Bowe’s Ford Mustang which he has driven in selected rounds of the Touring Car Masters this season.

A late deal ensures Johnson will attend the Supercheap Auto Bathurst 1000 event after failing to land an V8 Supercars endurance drive, which will see him miss the showpiece race for the first time in more than two decades.

Although sad to miss The Great Race, Johnson is looking forward to being reunited with the Mustang he has guided to eight race wins this year.

His return to category will see him lock horns with Bowe, who will be back behind the wheel of the Bendigo Retro Muscle Cars-prepared Holden Torana SL/R 5000.

“It doesn’t matter what you drive at Bathurst its pretty cool but obviously pretty bummed not to be there in the 1000 having been there for the last 22 starts,” said Johnson.

“It is s bit strange because I have had a routine for the last few years and I’m sure it hit home as the event draws closer. It will be tough.

“After the disappointment of missing out the SMP TCM round I’m super excited to be back in Mustang Sally for Bathurst this weekend.

“I can’t wait to be back behind the wheel and what a place to do it, Bathurst.

“I have to admit I was a little jealous seeing Neil Crompton drive out of the pits each race at SMP but was it was great exposure for PAYCE, Wilson Security, my personal sponsors and supporters.

“It’s going to be tough against JB, he was very fast last outing and the regular TCM field will be strong and I’m really looking forward to it.

“Bathurst is a magic place and every racer wants to race there – it doesn’t matter how many times you’ve raced there you never come away feeling you’ve mastered it.”

Jim Richards (AMC Javelin) currently leads the championship standings by 10 points from Andrew Miedecke (Chevrolet Camaro) with Bowe in third 37 points adrift.

The event will also see Andrew Fisher debut a newly rebuilt Ford Falcon GTHO after sitting out the previous round at Muscle Car Masters.

The TCM field will tackle three races across the weekend including the now traditional early Sunday morning curtain-raiser prior to the Supercheap Auto Bathurst 1000.

Touring Car Masters Entry List