Rookie Gray reacts to first DJR Mustang laps
Rylan Gray completes first laps with Dick Johnson Racing
Reigning Super2 champion took first of two rookie days for the season
Gray working with new engineer Ed Williams in 2026
Rylan Gray was in a buoyant mood after completing his first rookie day of the year at Queensland Raceway on Monday.
19-year-old Gray, the defending DUNLOP Super2 Series champion, cut his first laps with the Shell V-Power Racing Team at their home test circuit, getting up to speed in his new surroundings for the year.
Having been a member of Tickford's junior lineup for the past three years, culminating in wildcard main game appearances with the squad last year alongside his Super2 commitments.
Gray, who has also moved from the NSW Hunter Valley to the Gold Coast during the off-season, said that the rookie day was a big boost to his preparation for his full-time debut.
"A very successful day here at QR with the Shell V-Power Racing Team,” Gray said.
"First time to get amongst it in race trim and adapt to the car was really good for me. We learned a lot today to take into Sydney.
On what he learned the most, Gray said: "I think just understanding the car. For me, it’s a lot different to what I'm used to in the Super2 cars.
“To adapt to this car was the biggest thing. And I think by the end of the day we got there.”
One of five rookies in the field, Gray will also be working with a new engineer in Ed Williams. The experienced Williams moves into the engineering role on the #38 as former engineer Tom Moore becomes Team Manager.
"I think we gelled together really well, me and Ed, we built a relationship over the day and we got really, really good by the end of it,” Gray said.
“Especially with everyone in the team, it was really, really good to have a day before we head to Sydney.
"I think we’re pretty well prepared to head into Sydney. We've done everything we need to, ran through our programs, and I think we'll just go to Sydney, see where we end up, and it is what it is."
Gray will complete a second rookie day in the lead-up to the Ryco Enduro Cup, with co-driver Tony D'Alberto also scheduled to score some laps of his own.
Rylan Gray's rookie season will commence at the DUNLOP Sydney 500 from February 20-22. Tickets for the event, including DUNLOP Free Friday, are on sale now.
