Ups and downs in Fujitsu V8 Supercars in Adelaide for McIntyre

Top New Zealand V8 driver John McIntyre has had an exciting, challenging weekend competing in the Fujitsu V8 Supercar Series in Adelaide, Australia.

Driving the #93 Fujitsu Racing BF Falcon for Stone Brothers Racing, McIntyre came through practice and qualifying third-fastest in the 19-strong field for the Fujitsu series’ opening round on the Adelaide street circuit. McIntyre had the opportunity to drive the SBR Ford as the team’s recently-signed young driver Scott McLaughlin still needed to complete some requirements for his V8 Supercar race licence.

From the second row of the starting grid behind regular V8 Supercar drivers Steve Owen and James Moffat, McIntyre took advantage of a small mistake by Moffat to get through into second place.

“I didn’t have quite enough car speed to hold out Moffat who went on to finish second to Owen, but I was very happy to have a podium finish on the very demanding street circuit,” said McIntyre. “And it was great to know I’d be starting Sunday’s 24-lap race in third again.”

McIntyre admitted he got a bad start in the weekend’s second race.

“I was fifth going into turn eight – the fastest corner in V8 Supercar series where you’re usually doing well over 200 km/h through this sweeping right-hander – and tried to get a run on the car in-front but clipped the inside kerb and caused a crash.

“It was extremely disappointing for Stone Brothers Racing and our sponsors. I was another driver to be claimed by this famous turn eight! But it’s been a fantastic weekend and I appreciate the opportunity to contest another V8 Supercar event with the team.”

McIntyre was unhurt in the high speed crash and returns to New Zealand early in the week to prepare for the final round of the New Zealand V8 championship at the Taupo Motorsport Park.

“John McIntyre Racing will be looking to end the season on a high note, and coming fresh from the challenges of a hard-out street races, I’m fired up to do well.”

In Taupo, Johnny Mac joins the other BNT V8 competitors in two practice sessions and qualifying on Saturday 20 March and the final three races of the championship on Sunday 21 March.