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Front Page
Ford Underlines Commitment to V8 Stars
Staff, Thursday February 9, 2006.
Page 1 of 1
Defending V8 Supercar champion Russell Ingall (Caltex Racing), has agreed to remain a Ford driver through until at least the end of 2008, while three-time champion and last year's runner-up, Craig Lowndes (Team Betta Electrical) has extended his deal though to the end of 2009.
Ford Australia President Tom Gorman made the announcement at the opening of the Melbourne International Motor Show. Ingall and Lowndes were on hand to help unveil the new turbo Territory performance models.
"I'm delighted to make this announcement as it secures two of our stars for the future," said Mr Gorman.
"Russell and Craig gave Ford a great one-two punch in 2005; we certainly expect that to continue through the next few years.
"Russell has been a fantastic asset to Ford on and off the track. I'm sure that winning last year's title has made him even hungrier for success.
"With the likes of Ross and Jimmy Stone and the entire Stone Brothers Racing team really showing the way at the moment, I'm sure Russell will have the right machinery to defend his title.
"Craig is one of the most talented drivers we have ever seen.
"Last year Craig underlined why Ford has invested so heavily in his talents. I know that this year we'll see more of that famous smile as he takes it to the competition.
"Craig is a valuable member of the Ford family on and off the track. We know that when Craig is running well, the sport is doing great business. This in turn is great news for his team and everyone involved with Ford Australia.
"We have many goals for the 2006 season. This includes retaining the driver's, team's and manufacturer's titles. However, we have one major trophy to get back and that's Bathurst. With guys like Russell and Craig in our stable, I think that we have a great chance of winning at Mount Panorama."
The announcement was the first major public event for Ingall since receiving his championship trophy.
"An announcement like this is a great way to start my title defence," said Ingall.
"I came to Ford in 2003 for one reason and that was to win a championship. In saying that, I'm keen for more success, especially after watching my team-mate Marcos Ambrose win two-straight titles.
"This announcement shows that Ford has confidence in what we are doing. I'm keen to repay that faith starting at Adelaide at the end of March. I can assure you that it's flat to the floor from the green light!"
The announcement of the Ford contract extension for Lowndes was also matched by his race team. Lowndes joined Team Betta Electrical at the start of last season.
?We achieved far more than I ever imagined in the first twelve months, so the next four years will hopefully be even better," said Lowndes.
?While it has taken me a while to find consistent success with Ford, I really enjoy the vehicles and love working with the Ford Racing group.
?I don?t think I have ever felt as much ?At Home? than with this team and I genuinely believe this has been a major factor in the success of our relationship to date.
?I am very comfortable with where the future is heading for Ford and Team Betta Electrical and I look forward to working with the team and, hopefully, being a consistent Championship contender over the next few years."
Ingall and Lowndes, along with all the other Ford drivers hit the track for the opening V8 Supercar Championship Series round, the Clipsal 500 on the streets of Adelaide between 23-26 March.
For Further information contact:
Ben Beazley
Media Coordinator
Ford Racing Australia
Phone: 03 9359 8190
Mobile: 0417 262 753
Email: bbeazle3@ford.com
Further information and high-resolution images relating to Ford Racing Australia can also be found at : media.ford.com
