Trofeo Motorsport will head into the 2019 Liqui Moly Bathurst 12 Hour with a new-look team.  

After picking up a podium finish in 2017 and fourth last year, a change to event and driver regulations saw the team forced to replace Ryan Millier with the experienced Ben Porter.

Porter will now join team-boss Jim Manolios, former F1-driver Ivan Capelli and Supercars race winner Dean Canto for the iconic race, while Millier will be forced to watch the #29 Lamborghini Huracan GT3 from the garage. 

“We were looking to carry through with our program from the last two years completely unchanged,” Manolios explained.

“It’s a strategy that has worked very well for us, with two top ten finishes in an unmarked car over both years we’ve campaigned the Huracan.

“Sadly a late change to the FIA driver rankings saw us facing a problem with our Pro-Am line-up with Ryan classified as Silver, so we’ve had to relegate him to calling the shots from the garage, which has given us an opportunity to bring Ben into the team.”

Porter’s inclusion is a major coup for the Melbourne-based team with the driver having solid experience at Mount Panorama, including regular appearances in previous Bathurst 6-Hours.

While it will be the first time Porter has competed in the 12-Hour event since 2014, the driver is excited to get back out there and contribute to the team.

“Who doesn’t love Bathurst,” Porter admitted.

“It’s one of the world’s greatest circuits and a thrill to drive around any opportunity you get.

“To be in a car that Canto has proven is every bit as quick as the top guys in the class means that you’re in for a very rewarding weekend.”

With Porter offering a wealth of experience to the team despite it being at the expense of Millier, who will contribute from the side, Manolios is excited about the prospect of getting back on the podium with a strong team.  

“Part of Ryan’s role within the team is to prepare the car, and alongside James Spengler they’re an integral part of the Trofeo Motorsport operation,” Manolios explained.

“To have him dedicated to working with the drivers and the engineers to prepare and maintain the car, will actually give us a greater edge, despite the fact we lose his skills behind the wheel.

“I’ve raced against Ben before, and he proved to be quick in the Huracan last year in Asia, so I think he’ll fit in very well.

“Canto was amongst the fastest drivers at Challenge Bathurst last year and it’s clear from the Adelaide Motor Festival that Ivan is still very fast, so we’re looking forward to challenging again for a return to the Pro-Am podium.”

The Liqui-Moly Bathurst 12 Hour takes place at Mount Panorama in Bathurst from 31 January to 3 February. 

Click here for more information on the Bathurst 12 Hour.