Grove Racing set for GT return 

Having enjoyed Supercars success and launched a global assault, Grove Racing will return to the GT World Challenge Australia field next month.

After missing round 2 at The Bend, the Supercars powerhouse will bring its new Mercedes-AMG GT3 back down under at the upcoming Queensland Raceway round.

The previous GT World Challenge Australia round Stephen and Brenton Grove competed in was the season opener at Phillip Island where they finished the opener sixth but did not take part in race 2.

However their first drive in the Mercedes was effected by illness for Stephen, who missed major chunks of the weekend.

Since then the duo were joined by Supercars stars Matt Payne and Garth Tander for the 24 hours of Portimao.

They started third, but were forced into retirement due to fuel pressure problems as a suspected fuel leak created a small fire.

Now Grove cannot wait to be back racing on home soil.

“It’s going to be great to be back in the Mercedes and also to be back racing in Australia,” said Brenton.

“I haven’t raced at QR for a while, so it will be good fun.

“We didn’t get to complete the full weekend at PI due to Steve’s illness, so fingers crossed we are able to make the full weekend this time!”

To prepare for their Australian return they have completed a test at Queensland Raceway, which has generated some confidence.

Grove believes a podium will be possible.

“Having recently tested at QR I think it will suit the Mercedes really well,” Brenton said.

“The aero works to the strengths of the Mercedes, as do the long straights.

“It was great at the test day, so hopefully we can back it up on the weekend.

“A podium is certainly the goal. It’s going to be hard as the competition is extremely strong and we haven’t driven for a while.

“However, that won’t stop us from having a big crack!”

The Queensland Raceway round will be held on August 2-4.

Image: RACE PROJECT

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