Lowndes is the championship favourite for 2006. He has a Stone Brothers Racing engine propelling his way to the front, he has probably the best chassis in the series, and is also regarded as the most naturally talented driver in the championship. And the best thing for Ford fans is that he’s been successful at just about every circuit on the calendar.
His new teammate in Jamie Whincup is completing a dream run of V8 upgrades. After being ditched by Garry Rogers Motorsport at the end of 2003, he was picked up to drive for Tasman Motorsport – where he finished fourth in China – and received the call to be Lowndes’ teammate for 2006. A quality steerer with a breeding in Formula Ford, Whincup can, with a little consistency, be a regular performer in the top ten.
Final Word
Lowndes: Title Favourite.
Whincup: Quick, but due to his erratics last year, will probably finish just outside the top ten.
Team Kiwi Racing
Paul Radisich (#021 VZ Commodore)
If a single car team were to finish on the podium on any given day – Team Kiwi Racing would be it.
It is truly amazing how a small outfit with a minuscule budget in comparison to the category’s super teams can consistently break into the top ten. But that’s the formula that makes TKR so unique. A technical partnership with Paul Morris Motorsports and the experience of dual World Touring Car Champion Paul Radisich make a lethal combination at any track or in any format. Since joining the team Radisich has delivered TKR their inaugural podium finish on the back of Craig Baird’s pole in 2004. With an undeniable thirst for success and the best working environment to spur him on, Radisich is one Dark Horse to look out for this year.
Final Word
Radisich: Money isn’t everything, and TKR’s giant-killing prowess is a trademark Radisich will continue.
2006 Fujitsu V8 Supercar Series
Running parallel to the V8 Supercar Series at several rounds is the ‘tier two’ of the number-one Australian racing series – the Fujitsu Championship.
