REIGNING Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Australia champion Fraser Ross says it’s a ‘dream come true’ to be lining up for his first Porsche Carrera Cup Australia season.

The young Melbournian took the wraps off his stunning Bausele / Porsche Brighton / The Ross Partnership Porsche 991 GT3 Cup Car today at Porsche’s official pre-season test day at the Phillip Island Grand Prix circuit in Victoria and he says entering Carrera Cup will be the fulfillment of a long-held career dream.

“People say it really is a dream come true, but this really is for me,” Ross said today.

“I have been watching Carrera Cup since it was first formed in Australia and I have always aspired to be part of it. To have this deal come together as it has and know that I will be on the grid at places like the Clipsal 500 and the Grand Prix is unbelievable.

“I’m pinching myself that it’s happening and I’m very thankful for my partners continuing the ride from last year.”

His fans will be pleased to note that the striking livery includes the customary bright colours that made his championship winning livery so popular last year – and that the orange wheels will also return.

“The car looks sensational and we’re really thrilled to have Bausele and Porsche Brighton back on board,” he said.

“We have a new sponsor to announce at the Clipsal 500 and the full livery will be unveiled there, but the orange wheels will definitely be back: they’re a bit of a trademark of mine now!”

Fraser joins a host of GT3 Cup Challenge graduates on the Carrera Cup grid this year, the progression from one Porsche series to another clearly appealing to drivers seeking to build experience before taking the leap into the competitive world of Carrera Cup racing.

Fraser joins former GT3 Cup Challenge series winners Richard Muscat and Roger Lago on the Carrera Cup grid this year – a grid filled with graduates from the series. As well as the three former champions on the grid, Elite class champion Steve Grove, Michael Almond and newcomer Matt Campbell also cut their Porsche teeth in the series prior to stepping to Carrera Cup.

“I think it’s the best possible way to enter Carrera Cup,” he explained.

“I feel more prepared and confident in entering the series this year than ever and it’s thanks to the level of competition and depth in the GT3 Cup Challenge field. It’s a great way to learn the cars and Porsche racing before making the step to Carrera Cup.”

Ross has modest ambitions ahead of his debut Carrera Cup season, targeting consistency and experience rather than outright results – at least in the early part of the season.

“I just want to learn and get as much experience as possible. I’m loving driving the 991 already, it’s such a step up from the 997 and I love the paddle shift.

“I just want to learn from the experienced guys all season and the aim is to be around the top 10. That would be great.”