Payne confirmed for full Super2 campaign in 2022
Grove Junior Team driver Matt Payne will complete the full six-round 2022 Dunlop Super2 Series.
Payne will join his rivals at March's Repco Newcastle 500 aboard the Nissan Altima he raced at the final two rounds of the 2021 Super2 season.
The 19-year-old's 2022 campaign will run alongside Grove Racing's maiden Repco Supercars Championship season as a fully-owned Grove team.
It ensures the wait will continue for the team to announce a teammate for David Reynolds for 2022.
However, with a Super2 seat locked in for 2022, Payne's ambitions for a full-time main game seat in 2023 remain alive.
"I’m excited to get the opportunity to compete in the full Dunlop Super2 Series next year," Payne said.
"By competing in Super2, it will give me the flexibility to compete in further endurance racing formats and advance my preparation for main game with Grove Racing in 2023.
"I have been given the opportunity to drive the team’s main series Mustangs and its Super2 Nissans, so I feel that I am as prepared as I could be to compete for race wins and podiums.
"It was awesome to race in the series in the final two rounds at Sydney Motorsport Park and Bathurst. The experience I gained there was phenomenal.
"These cars are a real thrill to drive, and I have to thank Stephen and Brenton for their trust and loyalty in giving me this chance."
Payne completed an evaluation aboard a Grove Altima and Mustang at Winton before he made his competitive Super2 debut.
The Super2 debutant initially impressed in Sydney, setting the fastest time in his first practice session before qualifying second for the opening sprint.
Following an accident in the wet in Sydney, Payne bounced back in Bathurst with fifth in the finale.
Grove Racing owner Stephen Grove was excited to help Payne develop his career.
"I’m proud that Grove Racing will be represented on the Super2 grid next year, highlighting the team's role in supporting and nurturing young talent in Australian motorsport," Grove said.
"Having Matthew represent the team and our partners are extremely exciting and shows the future direction that Grove Racing is headed.
"Having analysed Matt this year, it was clear that he’s a talent of the sport and someone we want to invest in.
"His speed and maturity are exceptional for the time he’s spent in not just a Supercar, but in racing cars in general.
"This year was his first year racing cars, so we’re pretty excited about the foundations we can build upon.
"He will continue his development within the team, working hand in hand with the main game squad and acting as a sponge to learn from the experience we have within the team."
The 2022 Dunlop Super2 season will commence on the streets of Newcastle. Tickets for the Repco Newcastle 500 are on sale now.
The 13-round draft calendar was released during the Repco Bathurst 1000 weekend.
