Ambrose ‘humbled’ by SVG livery

Marcos Ambrose is “thrilled” to see his most famous NASCAR livery brought back to life by fellow Supercars export Shane van Gisbergen.

At this weekend’s NASCAR Xfinity Series race at the famous Darlington Raceway, a number of drivers are sporting throwback liveries.

Fittingly van Gisbergen has paid tribute to another former Supercars star who wowed in America in Ambrose.

The usually white #97 Kaulig Racing Camaro is now yellow and black, replicating Ambrose’s most famous livery.

It is the paint scheme the Australian steered to a famous last-lap win at Watkins Glen in 2012.

Ambrose, steering a #9 Richard Petty Motorsports Ford Fusion, snatched the win from Brad Keslowski at the final corner.

It was the second of back to back wins for the former Supercars star at Watkins Glen.

Ambrose admitted he is extremely touched to see van Gisbergen celebrate his NASCAR career.

“I’m a friend and big fan of Shane as he is a true racer with amazing skills,” Ambrose said. 

Marcos Ambrose celebrating his victory at Watkins Glen in 2012. Image: LAT Photo USA

“When Shane called to show me the throwback paint scheme I was humbled and thrilled to see it.

“I have fond memories of my time in NASCAR and being part of the Petty racing family. 

“I feel privileged to have experienced NASCAR just like SVG is now.

“Darlington is one of my all-time favourite tracks and I can’t wait to see my old livery race the track with Shane driving it. 

“I don’t think the right side will stay pretty for long though.”

Just like van Gisbergen, Ambrose left Supercars having won back to back titles before falling just short in his final season to go to America and chase the NASCAR dream.

It became a reality for the former SBR star, who started 227 NASCAR Cup Series races between 2008 and 2014 and took two wins, 46 top 10s and three poles.

Marcos Ambrose hunted down Brad Keslowski on the final lap at Watkins Glen in 2012. Image by
LAT Photo USA

In addition to the top tier, Ambrose also had plenty of success in what was then called the Nationwide Series with five victories.

Now van Gisbergen is following in the Ford legend’s footsteps having launched a full time NASCAR career this year after making one-off appearances with great success in the Cup Series in 2023.

To assist with the big jump from Supercars to NASCAR, the Kiwi has naturally seemed advise from Ambrose and is looking forward to the honour of racing his colours this weekend.

“It’s going to be cool running a throwback scheme for Marcos in Darlington, SVG said. 

“He has been someone who has been influential and pushing me to come over here and take every opportunity that I’ve got. 

“He has also helped me with learning the tracks every week and what to expect on race weekends. 

“To run the livery that he drove to victory back in 2012 at Watkins Glen is really cool. 

“I appreciate Quad Lock coming on board and letting us run this special scheme this weekend in Darlington. It’s going to be a lot of fun!”

Van Gisbergen will race with these colours in the Xfinity Series race at the historic Darlington Raceway, which will be held at 3.30am this Sunday.

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