Jonny Reid has been named as the second driver at Dick Johnson Racing, completing the team’s line up and the 2013 V8 Supercars Championship field.
New Zealander Reid will get behind the wheel of the No.12 Wilson Security-backed Falcon (leased from Racing Entitlement Contract holder Dean Fiore), while team-mate Tim Blanchard will pilot the ADVAM-backed #17 Falcon.
Following several years racing open wheelers, the 29-year-old has gone on to finish runner-up in the Australian Carrera Cup Championship in the last two seasons. In 2012, he partnered Michael Patrizi at Tekno Autosports for the V8 Supercars endurance events and completed a full-time campaign in the New Zealand V8 SuperTourer Series.
“My aim since 2011 was to focus on a full time V8 Supercar drive,” said Reid.
“This is a world class series and after a great run in the enduros last year I was very hungry to try and step up. To be able to begin my fulltime driving with a DJR is fantastic.
“I have got to know Steve well and we spoke at length at the Bathurst 12 Hour. Once we knew the deal could progress and Wilson Security came on board the #12 DJR car it was full steam ahead. I am really looking forward to rolling the car out at Clipsal.”
Despite financial setbacks, team owner Dick Johnson is confident that in Reid and Blanchard he has two signings that can propel the team forward again.
“We were impressed with Tim Blanchard and he tested well for us last week in Sydney. With Steve stepping down we had a number of younger drivers in our sights and Jonny was the stand out,” Johnson said.
“He has raced in a multitude of classes all over the world and has had great success. We saw him as a perfect fit. With renewed and enthusiastic sponsorship support we can really work on bringing these two blokes to the front of the V8 Supercar grid.” Dick concluded.
