BRABHAM GOING BACK TO HIS ROOTS

Matthew Brabham going back to his roots – Photo: Supplied

Matthew Brabham will turn his first laps in an S5000 car today at the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit along with Formula 1 star Rubens Barrichello and many of the drivers contesting the inaugural round of the series this weekend.

By DAN McCARTHY

Brabham is a name synonymous with motorsport both in Australia and overseas, it is fitting that it should be on the grid for the dawn of a new era in open-wheel racing down under.

Matthew is the grandson of three-time Formula 1 champion Sir Jack and the son of Le Mans 24 Hour winner and IndyCar driver Geoff Brabham.

Most well known for being the reigning Stadium Super Truck Series winner Matthew is a very established open-wheel driver in his own right, winning the U.S. F2000 National Championship and Pro Mazda Championships in America.

“I grew up here in Australia racing Formula Ford and go-karting all through the ranks,” Brabham told Auto Action

“Coming back here to the tracks like Sandown and Phillip Island, they are the tracks I cut my teeth on growing up as a kid, so to be back in an open-wheel car is really cool and special.

“I’m sure Rubens is feeling the same way, it has been a little while since he has been in an open-wheel car and same for me, I can’t wait.”

Brabham has previously raced in IndyCar and Formula E for the famous Andretti Motorsport team but is very excited by the opportunity to cut some laps in the S5000 car.

“I’ve seen so much footage and I haven’t driven the car yet, so I’m really looking forward to getting in and seeing what it is all about,” he said.

“I’ve heard such positive comments from all the guys I know who have tested in the car, like John Martin and Tim Macrow, I can’t wait to experience it myself and see how it goes.

“I’m sure there will be a lot to work through with a new car and all of that, we should get some pretty decent time running on the track and get everything ready for Sandown.”

The first round at Sandown begins on Friday with two of the races broadcast live and free on SBS, all of the weekend’s action can be streamed on the Shannons Nationals website.

For more of the latest motorsport news pick up the current issue of Auto Action. Also make sure you follow us on social media Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or our weekly email newsletter for all the latest updates between issues.