A name synonymous with Ford in Australian motorsport has linked with newcomers Mercedes for this year’s V8 Supercars endurance races.
Steven Johnson – son of five-time touring car champion Dick – has jumped ship to tackle the three enduros including the event that made his dad famous, the Bathurst 1000.
Johnson had been itching to return behind the wheel after being forced to ditch driving duties and take up the general manager role for the financially embattled Dick Johnson Racing (DJR) team this year.
“It’s going to be very interesting for me to see how another team operates and I’m hoping this will help me further develop as a driver,” said Johnson, who will co-drive with Maro Engel.
“Working with new people and forging new relationships in such a short time is going to be an enjoyable challenge.”
Johnson will combine with German driver Engel in the Sandown 500 (September 13-15), Bathurst 1000 (October 10-13) and the Gold Coast 600 (October 25-27).
Johnson’s previous 18 Bathurst 1000 starts had all been in DJR Fords.
He opted to take the paid drive with Mercedes rather than race with DJR again in the enduros this year in order to blood a youngster.
“Of course my decision not to drive at DJR was a big one, but I believe the opportunities the team has to develop young talent will be a big focus as DJR re-emerges,” said Johnson.
“It is important they capitalise on these objectives and in turn I can concentrate my attention on the long distance races.
“I will have no other hats on and I can concentrate 100 per cent on doing the best job I can with the Erebus team and with Maro.”