History was made at Winton as the first Gen3 Supercar hit the track today as Todd Hazelwood took the Blanchard Racing Team Ford Mustang through its paces.
Team Owner Tim Blanchard drove the installation lap before new signing Hazelwood took over the wheel completing a shakedown for BRT001 at the rural Victorian circuit.
In addition to the personnel Blanchard Racing Team being in attendance, Supercars Head of Motorsport Adrian Burgess and engine expert Craig Hasted oversaw the test.
“We commend Tim Blanchard and his team for their efforts to get to this point and begin the next phase of their Gen3 journey,” Supercars CEO Shane Howard said.
“Gen3 is the biggest change in the history of our sport, and to see the first of 25 Supercars on track, unveiled in its racing colours this morning, is an exciting moment.
“This is the first shakedown and livery reveal from the Supercars teams, and more will follow over coming days, which is great news for fans as we continue the countdown to their racing debut in March.
“We acknowledge the incredible amount of work by team members, manufacturers, engineers and the technical experts involved in this project, who have worked long hours over the Christmas period and throughout summer to bring their teams to this point.
“Due to their efforts, we are now seeing these amazing Supercars on track in team colours ahead of their racing debut.”
Hazelwood was excited to jump behind the wheel of the Ford Mustang for its first shakedown.
“The metallic blue paint really makes the finish of the car look super professional, and it looks fast just sitting still,” he remarked.
“The team here at BRT have done a superb job with the build of this brand new Mustang.
“They have aimed for perfection in every aspect, and when you look closely at the car, you can truly see the attention to detail.
“I’m working harder than ever to ensure the long hours, late nights and commitment this team has made will be rewarded with some great results in 2023.
“I’m sure the Ford fans will love our blue CoolDrive Mustang, and I’m keen to continue with the testing and development program.”
Team Co-Principal John Blanchard congratulated the small team on achieving this build first.
“The effort that Mirko and the entire crew have put into the build of this new Mustang is incredible,” he said.
“The build of the new Gen3 car started back September last year, when we started planning and preparing our resources in anticipation.
“I am very proud of everyone in our business and team for what they have achieved to get this car on track by 1 February — it has been a real team effort.
“It’s obviously a very exciting time for Supercars with the introduction of the Gen3 project, which will truly level the playing field for competitors.”
Further teams are expected to test next week, with Dick Johnson Racing and Matt Stone Racing at Queensland Raceway on February 7. Victorian teams Tickford Racing, Brad Jones Racing and Penrite Racing will do likewise at Winton.
All tests are free to attend for the public including the all-in day at Sydney Motorsport Park on February 22.