Seton signs with Shell Helix Racing
5/9/2004 23:17 (Press Release) -
Glenn Seton will lead Dick Johnson's Shell Helix Racing Ford team in 2005. The two-time Australian V8 Supercar Champion today signed a two-year contract with Johnson's iconic Ford operation, the longest-established professional race team in the country.
Seton and Johnson's new partnership brings together the two biggest Ford names in Australian motor racing.
"For Ford, its dealers and all the Ford fans this is clearly an exciting announcement," said Motorsport Operations Manager for Ford Stephen Kruk.
"Not only are two Ford heroes joining forces, but more importantly it improves our strength across the Falcon teams. We want strong Ford teams and not just a lone gun taking it up to the opposition."
Two seasons since selling his own team, Seton is excited about joining forces with his long-time rival.
"Dick and I have raced hard against each other as both drivers and team owners for more than a decade. There's always been mutual respect there, so the opportunity to join forces was too good to pass up," Glenn Seton said.
"We've both got a point to prove ... the last couple of seasons have been tough, results wise, for both of us but together we're determined to return to the front of the field.
"Another factor is that I've relocated to Queensland, so the team's just up the road, and I can once again take a much more active role with the team.
"Dick's equipment and technical resources are the equal of anyone out there, I know the cars are fast and strong, they've got a great track record and great people, so it was a pretty easy decision for me."
Johnson is equally delighted to have Seton's signature on a contract.
"Frankly, Glenn has the right mix of speed and experience to deliver the results we've been working so hard foR ... it's the final piece of the puzzle for us.
"His desire to win hasn't gone away, he's out to prove to the world he's still as competitive as ever, and we can give him the equipment and environment to make that happen.
"Our new partnership is an unexpected outcome, for sure, when you consider how many years we're been racing each other but it's a very exciting prospect .. we're really looking forward to 2005," Dick Johnson said.
Shell Helix Racing is currently in negotiation with contracted drivers Warren Luff and Owen Kelly regarding continued roles in 2005.
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