PODCAST: Russell targets Bathurst success
PremiAir Racing’s David Russell backs James Golding and eyes coverted Peter Brock Trophy
Veteran co-driver David Russell is gearing up for one of the biggest periods of the Supercars season, confident that his partnership with James Golding at Premier Racing can deliver strong results at both The Bend and Mount Panorama.
With limited testing in the lead-up to the enduro season, Russell admits preparation has been tough, but he believes the challenge will sharpen teams’ strategies.
“A lot of co-drivers are probably going to be feeling a little underdone come race day,” he told Jax Tyres & Auto Race for the Championship’s Allan Edwards.
“But that’s part of the endurance build-up. You’ve got to adapt quickly.”
This year sees the Sandown 500 replaced by The Bend 500, a shift Russell views positively. “It’s a great track – challenging, with plenty of passing opportunities. Hopefully it makes for some exciting racing,” he said, while acknowledging the historical weight of leaving Sandown behind.
Russell has pedigree at Bathurst, with a second and third alongside Brodie Kostecki and strong results in recent years. He’s optimistic about claiming his maiden Great Race victory this October with Golding.
“Last year we finished sixth, which was Premier’s best Bathurst result. We want to build on that. If we can put together a clean race and have a decent car, there’s no reason we can’t be in the fight.”
He praised Golding’s development as a driver, describing him as “fast and talented” with the consistency now needed to deliver results. Russell also reflected on his time with Kostecki, calling him “technically very good” and capable of producing something extra when the car wasn’t perfect.
Changes to Bathurst’s co-driver rules, which increase minimum laps, should add another layer of strategy.
“It opens up options – whether you start the co-driver or not, how you manage stints. Engineers will have to think hard about the balance,” Russell explained.
Looking beyond this year, Russell reflected on his journey from production cars to Supercars, admitting it hasn’t been easy without major financial backing.
“You’ve got to keep showing up and getting results. None of it came easy, but sponsors like Dayco have been vital to keeping me on the grid.”
Away from Supercars, Russell continues to race Porsche Carrera Cup, which he credits with keeping him sharp.
“The cars are fast, the racing is tough, and it’s great preparation for the endurance races,” he said.
As he heads into another endurance campaign, Russell remains motivated by one clear goal: to climb one step higher at Bathurst and finally lift the Peter Brock Trophy.
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