Post by Mαττ on Aug 13, 2005 4:05:04 GMT -5
Rumours abound that Australian Reece Byrne could be signing a deal to race with Holden Motorsport for the 2006 season. Byrne initially drove for Team Clownpaint-Hyundai in the WSRC until certain undisclosed factors led to the team's withdrawal. There has been no comment from either Byrne or Holden Motorsport at this stage, but an announcement is expected within the next two weeks.
In further news, Holden Motorsport were at Phillip Island in Melbourne today as the team completed a shakedown of their new car. The car was driven by ex-F1 pilot Eddie Irvine. 15 laps were completed by Irvine, who appeared delighted with the way the car felt. A team spokesperson said "the program was completed with no major incident. at this stage, everything is very much on course. today was not about lap speed, we expect that will come as the bugs are ironed out". The team also dismissed suggestions that Irvine could yet join the team, saying "Eddie and the team have no plans for a future relationship. This was just a one off test arranged by Mr Irvine and Holden Motorsport".
Another major talking point at the test was the livery of the vehicle, being very similar to the red design as campaigned by the sister outfit; the Holden Racing Team in the V8 supercar championship. Notiecable on the livery is the Mobil logo, the oil company having been named as the title sponsor of the team. Holden are pleased to say the deal is unlikely to affect the company's relationship with Team Porsche in any way.
The following pic was taken at Albert Park two days ago where the team put on a demonstration for the fans. The circuit is currently undergoing preparations in readiness for the WSRC in a few months, yet the team were able to buy some track time. The free entry enabled 3500 fans to turn up, and were treated to a range of events, culminating in the car laying down the rubber around the circuit. Holden wish to thank the Melbourne city council and the WSRC for this oportunity.
official press release from Holden Motorsport
In further news, Holden Motorsport were at Phillip Island in Melbourne today as the team completed a shakedown of their new car. The car was driven by ex-F1 pilot Eddie Irvine. 15 laps were completed by Irvine, who appeared delighted with the way the car felt. A team spokesperson said "the program was completed with no major incident. at this stage, everything is very much on course. today was not about lap speed, we expect that will come as the bugs are ironed out". The team also dismissed suggestions that Irvine could yet join the team, saying "Eddie and the team have no plans for a future relationship. This was just a one off test arranged by Mr Irvine and Holden Motorsport".
Another major talking point at the test was the livery of the vehicle, being very similar to the red design as campaigned by the sister outfit; the Holden Racing Team in the V8 supercar championship. Notiecable on the livery is the Mobil logo, the oil company having been named as the title sponsor of the team. Holden are pleased to say the deal is unlikely to affect the company's relationship with Team Porsche in any way.
The following pic was taken at Albert Park two days ago where the team put on a demonstration for the fans. The circuit is currently undergoing preparations in readiness for the WSRC in a few months, yet the team were able to buy some track time. The free entry enabled 3500 fans to turn up, and were treated to a range of events, culminating in the car laying down the rubber around the circuit. Holden wish to thank the Melbourne city council and the WSRC for this oportunity.
official press release from Holden Motorsport