Richards returns for endurance events

Steven Richards will race for Ford Performance Racing in the endurance rounds at Phillip Island & Bathurst for Ford Performance Racing, sharing with Mark Winterbottom.

Richards, who drove the No.6 FPR car since 2007 before being replaced by Will Davison for this season will pair up with ‘Frosty’ in the No.5 Ford Falcon FG, as the two will attempt to win the Bathurst 1000km, an acheivement which has thus far eluded the Victoria based team.

“Of all the opportunities that could have transpired this is the best one,” said Richards.

“I know the team and I know Frosty. The previous times we’ve driven together have worked out really well and I think we are a real chance to win both races.”

“Having two A-grade drivers which can operate at a high level whether it is wet, dry or indifferent – that is what you need for those races, particularly Bathurst.”

Luke Youlden, who drove with Winterbottom at the two endurance events last year as well as at Surfers Paradise will pair with the team’s new driver Will Davison in the No.6 car.

“Steve and Luke bring a lot of endurance race experience and knowledge of the team which will be invaluable come Phillip Island and Bathurst,” said FPR Team Principal Tim Edwards.

“Steve was in high demand given his experience and race record in the enduros so it is a credit to the team and the strength of the relationship we have with him that he chose to drive for us.”

“Luke has shown in the last three seasons that he has the pace to drop into our line-up for these two critical races so retaining him for a fourth year is the ideal scenario. He was also in high demand so we couldn’t be happier with our line-up.”