Two-time V8 Supercars champion Marcos Ambrose has surprisingly asked for a break from driving as he reassesses his much hyped comeback.

His Ford outfit DJR Team Penske dropped the bombshell on Tuesday in a statement that claimed Ambrose “has requested to be temporarily relieved as driver” effective immediately.

The Tasmanian’s withdrawal came barely a fortnight before he was set to make an emotional return to his home state’s V8 event at Symmons Plains.

Scott Pye will replace Ambrose in the Ford team.

Ambrose requested a break after contesting just two rounds – the season opener in Adelaide and last weekend’s non championship event at the Australian Grand Prix.

“Following the Australian Grand Prix, Marcos came to the team, requesting to be replaced from his upcoming driving responsibilities, while he continues the transition back into V8 Supercars competition,” team boss Roger Penske said.

“Entering the season, Marcos understood that the competition in this series is at a very high level and now realises that more time is required for this transition.”

Ambrose stressed that he was committed to the Ford team.

“I want to thank DJR Team Penske for the opportunity and support through the process of transitioning back into V8 Supercars,” Ambrose said.

“I would like to make it clear that I am fully committed to this team.”

Ambrose won 28 races over five seasons and captured back-to-back V8 Supercars titles from 2003-04.

However he has struggled since returning from a successful US NASCAR stint this year.