Scott McLaughlin becomes youngest ever V8 Supercars winner
19-year-old Kiwi Scott McLauglin claimed his first ever V8 Supercars victory in the first race of the weekend at Pukekohe Park.
“It’s something I’ll never forget. I’m just waiting to call Mum and Dad, I haven’t called yet, so I’m looking forward to talking to them. This is so big for myself, my family and my team. They all deserve it so much,” said McLauglin.
The Fujitsu Racing GRM driver started fourth and was able to capitalize from the mistakes and misfortunes of the drivers in front of him in the early stages of the race.
Jamie Whincup started from pole position but lost the lead on the first lap as he made a mistake, handing the lead to Ford’s Mark Winterbottom. Things went even worse later for Whincup as he was penalised for speeding in the pitlane, losing one lap to the leaders.
Winterbottom held the lead for just over ten laps when he was forced to pit due to a left rear puncture.
McLaughlin made the most of his opportunity and won the race one second ahead of Jason Bright to become the youngest ever V8 Supercars winner.
Craig Lowndes claimed the final podium spot in third, ahead of Shane Van Gisbergen and Fabian Coulthard.
Garth Tander, who was in the podium fight before making a mistake, headed the top Ford driver in the form of Will Davison in sixth and seventh position.
