News

NEWCASTLE 500 - FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 24 – PRACTICE

Fabian Coulthard - No. 12 Shell V-Power Racing Ford

PRACTICE 1 – 20th (Fastest Lap: 1m11.5020s)
PRACTICE 2 – 5th (Fastest Lap: 1m010.1297s – Under Old Record)

Scott McLaughlin - No. 17 Shell V-Power Racing Ford

PRACTICE 1 – 7th (Fastest Lap: 1m11.0634s)
PRACTICE 2 – 1st  (Fastest Lap: 1m09.5949s - NEW RECORD)

Fabian Coulthard - No. 12 Shell V-Power Racing Ford

Recap: Opening practice saw Coulthard's initial times near the top of the sheets, before a switch of focus to longer runs and race pace. He was hampered by traffic around the tight 2.6km Newcastle circuit, preventing him from setting an indicative time later in the session. Practice 2 was much better, with improved car balance seeing Coulthard finish inside the top-five for the day.

Coulthard Quote: "Really solid start to the weekend for us, finishing final practice in the top-five. Car feels pretty good, a little bit of work to do overnight but we're heading in the right direction. The track is incredible, and what a fantastic crowd. Can't wait for tomorrow."

Scott McLaughlin - No. 17 Shell V-Power Racing Ford

Recap: McLaughlin comes into the weekend going head-to-head with Jamie Whincup for the Supercars title, and he has opened his account in the best possible way with the fastest lap in practice around the Newcastle Street Circuit. He went through Practice 2 continually bettering his own time at the top, and ended the day as the only driver in the 'nines', more than four-tenths faster than second placed Jamie Whincup.

McLaughlin Quote: "Such an awesome track, it's so impressive to see the big crowd lining the track on a Friday. The car is good, I have the tools to do the job so now it's up to me to get it done. I'm pumped for qualifying tomorrow, and looking forward to the race."