Skip navigation
Favorites
Sign up to follow your favorites on all your devices.
Sign up

Former NASCAR driver Marcos Ambrose temporarily steps out of V8 Supercar ride

V8 Supercars Clipsal 500 - Race 3

V8 Supercars Clipsal 500 - Race 3

Getty Images

Former NASCAR driver Marcos Ambrose has been granted his request to be temporarily relieved of his driving duties in the V8 Supercars Series to get more experience in those cars, DJR Team Penske announced Tuesday.

Ambrose left NASCAR last year after his sixth full Sprint Cup season to return to Australia and drive V8 Supercars. He won series titles in those cars in 2003 and ’04. Ambrose’s top finish this season in two races is 12th. Scott Pye will take over Ambrose’s ride.

“I want to thank DJR Team Penske for the opportunity and support through the process of transitioning back into V8 Supercars,’’ Ambrose said in a statement from the team. “I would like to make it clear that I am fully committed to this team. Although this is a decision which has been hard to make, it has become clear to me over the first two events of the season that I need more experience in these cars to do what is required of the lead driver and to be competitive for the team and our partners.’’

“Scott is a great driver, has already worked with the team and has more experience in these cars, which will give the team the best chance to be successful right now. This decision to step aside from the lead driver role at DJR Team Penske is completely my decision. Although this decision may disappoint fans of whom I apologize to, I will continue be a great teammate and will be at the track to support the team in Tasmania. I look forward to getting back on the track later this season and will be ready to do my best for DJR Team Penske.”

Team owner Roger Penske stated: “I appreciate the effort that Marcos and DJR Team Penske have provided over the first two events of the season. 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. Entering the season, Marcos understood that the competition in this series is at a very high level and now realizes that more time is required for this transition.

“This was a difficult decision for Marcos but I appreciate him thinking about the greater good of the team. Marcos will continue to support the team and our partners including competing in the Endurance Series Races.”

Follow @dustinlong