McLaughlin optimistic of Bathurst return
18 Feb 2022
Scott McLaughlin says a return to Mount Panorama is "looking really good" ahead of his second IndyCar campaign.
Three-time Supercars champion McLaughlin missed last year’s Repco Bathurst 1000 due to COVID-19-induced travel restrictions.
United States-based McLaughlin was slated to race for the Shell V-Power Racing Team, and was replaced by Alex Davison.
It was the first Great Race the New Zealander had missed since his his 2012 debut.
McLaughlin, whose 2022 IndyCar campaign starts in St. Petersburg next weekend, recently tested at the Sebring short course.
His maiden full-time IndyCar season featured a podium in Texas, and he scored overall rookie honours.
McLaughlin will again drive the #3 Team Penske Chevrolet in 2022, alongside teammates Will Power and Josef Newgarden.
"It's hard to set goals in this place because it's so competitive and things can change in an instant," McLaughlin said.
"I'd love to qualify in the top 10 every race. It would put me in a good spot every Sunday; it can certainly help my race strategy.
"I have no doubt my race results will get better if I qualify better, and I know I can do that.
"I had plenty of poles in Australia. It's just a matter of figuring out what I want from the car."
The Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg will open the new IndyCar season next weekend.
The 13-event 2022 Repco Supercars Championship will commence in Sydney in March. CLICK HERE to purchase your tickets.
