In an exciting finish to the MSS Security Melbourne SuperSprint at the Formula 1 Rolex Australian Grand Prix, Nick Percat clinched his first win in almost four years, making a strong debut since joining Matt Stone Racing. This victory ends his dry spell and marks a significant turnaround since leaving Walkinshaw Andretti United.
Percat, driving the Bendix MSR Chevrolet Camaro for only the second time, manoeuvred the track skillfully, crossing the finish line ahead of Will Brown and Broc Feeney from Red Bull Ampol Racing. This win adds to Percat’s fifth career race victory.
In a heartfelt post-race interview, Nick Percat expressed his gratitude, saying, “I’m speechless. I can’t thank Matt and the team enough. I was ready to quit, and now here we are winning a race in Round 2. It’s incredible.” His words highlight the importance of this win and his renewed energy since joining Matt Stone Racing.
“Unbelievable. I’m kind of speechless. I can’t thank Matt, the whole team enough,” said an emotional Percat, who departed Walkinshaw Andretti United in the off-season.
“I wanted to quit, and now Round 2, we’ve won a race. It’s seriously amazing.
“Last 18 months, hated every second of that mob. So, honestly, the moment I walked into MSR, I knew this is where I needed to be.”
Adding to the excitement, Will Brown’s impressive performance earned him the round win, securing the Larry Perkins Trophy. Brown’s strategic overtaking moves during the race propelled him to second place, showcasing his determination and skill.
However, the race wasn’t without its share of drama. Anton De Pasquale’s non-start and Cameron Hill’s trip into the gravel added to the intensity of the event. The collision between Chaz Mostert and Matt Payne, causing both cars to go off-track, shook up the leaderboard, giving Percat the chance to maintain his lead until the end.
With the dust settled, Brown emerged as the leader of the Repco Supercars Championship, with a 17-point lead over Feeney. This sets the stage for an exciting third round as Supercars heads back to New Zealand for the ITM Taup? Super400 in April.
