Russell returns to Supercars for enduros

The 25-year-old has been out of action ever since leaving Erebus Motorsport after the Townsville 400 round, over sponsorship dispute.

Russell will compete in the three enduros round at Sandown, Bathurst and Gold Coast, driving the #3 Holden VF Commodore.

“I’m really looking forward to jumping back aboard a V8 Supercar again,” said Russell upon the announcement.

“I would love to sit here and tell everyone that I don’t miss driving them but that’s far from the truth. I’ve been edging to get back into a V8 Supercar from the minute I stopped, so I’m pretty pumped to be honest!"

This will not be the first time that Russell will partner Heimgartner having run alongside him in the Dunlop Series and the New Zealand V8 Super Tourers in the past.

“I’ve known Andre for a few years now, we met back in the Dunlop series and I also had a bit to do with him at Paul Morris’ workshop, so I already have a really good relationship with him,” said Russell.

“We also drove together in one of the New Zealand V8 Super Tourer Endurance rounds, so I got to know him quite well over the years.

“I think we could definitely be a dark horse throughout the endurance rounds. We both have a bit of experience between us, but I think we will work well together and really try to maximise the results," he added.

Team owner Lucas Dumbrell commented: “It’s great to be able to give another young driver an opportunity to compete on the big stage, I believe Aaren will work well with Andre over the PIRTEK Endurance Cup."

Russell's first outing in the LDM car will take place next Tuesday at the team's test day at Winton Motor Raceway.