Dick Johnson Racing expands to three cars for 2012

Dick Johnson Racing has announced they plan to step back up to a three car team from 2012, simultaneously confirming an extension of their sponsorship deal with Jim Beam.

The Queensland-based team, which won the drivers’ title last year with James Courtney, will expand to running three cars under the Jim Beam Racing banner next year, with Dean Fiore joining the team, leaving his own team, Triple F Racing.

“Running a team and having to find sponsors created a lot of pressure, which meant I couldn’t focus purely on my racing,” said Fiore. “Jim Beam Racing have a great team behind them and I’m really looking forward to working with them next year and being able to drive alongside Steve. The pressure of running a team is off me now, and I can concentrate on driving.”

DJR ran three cars in 2010, two under the Jim Beam Racing moniker for James Courtney and Steve Johnson, and a third car for Jonothon Webb as Mother Energy Racing, which is now run by Webb’s Tekno Autosports team.

“We’re thrilled to know we have the support from Jim Beam as we’ve worked so closely with them over the years,” said Team Principal Dick Johnson. “We know our fans and our Team Mates will be as excited as us about next season, and to have Dean Fiore as part of the Jim Beam Racing set up in 2012 adds even more anticipation.”