Photo: WAU

Ryan Wood inks multi-year WAU deal

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Walkinshaw Andretti United has announced that Ryan Wood will replace Nick Percat for the 2024 Supercars season after inking a multi-year deal to step up from Super2.

The teenager joined the team at the start of the year for his rookie Super2 programme, where he currently sits fourth in the standings having scored pole in Newcastle and a clean sweep of wins in Perth.

Wood has already sampled the Gen3 Ford Mustang in a rookie evaluation day at Winton Motor Raceway and will now line up alongside Chaz Mostert next season.

“It’s a dream come true to be racing in the Supercars Championship with Walkinshaw Andretti United,” he said. “It’s something you think about a lot as a kid and structure everything you do around, so for it to be coming true is pretty surreal to be honest.

“From the moment I walked into the team at the start of the year it felt right, they’ve been amazing to work with, there’s some incredible people within these four walls, so I can’t thank the entire team enough for the opportunity and the work that’s gone on this year.

“There’s been a lot of people that have helped me get to this point throughout my career which I can’t thank enough either, from my family to supporters, a heap of people have played a really important role and I wouldn’t be here without them.

“Next year is going to be so exciting, but it’s extra motivation now for me to finish this year strong with the team, put the work in, and hit the ground running in 2024.”

Team boss Ryan Walkinshaw said he was pleased to give the youngster the chance to move up.

“We are extremely excited to have Ryan graduate to the main game in 2024,” he said. “His talent has been undeniable, and his raw speed obvious from the first time we saw him in a WAU car, so we are looking forward to watching his progression.

“There will be a lot to learn, but he’s got a great team-mate beside him in Chaz who will no doubt put Ryan under his wing, and some really experienced people in his corner, so we can’t wait to watch his career unfold.”