Mat Coch writes:

Former Virgin racer Lucas di Grassi has been confirmed as Tekno Motorsports 'international' driver for the Gold Coast 600.

It will be the Brazilian's debut race in the V8 Supercar series, having spent his time since Formula One racing sports and endurance cars. He was recently at the wheel for Audi at the Interlagos circuit in his native Brazil while he has also remained at the wheel of a Formula One car acting as test driver for Pirelli.

Di Grassi will pair up with Michael Patrizi in the teams #91 Holden Commodore.

"Lucas' background, demonstrated by his formidable result this past weekend for Audi in Brazil, will guarantee car 91 will be competitive," said team manager Bruce Jenkins.

"It is an awesome opportunity to partner a highly credentialed driver such as Lucas," added Patrizi. "I'm looking forward to racing in the Gold Coast 600 for the first time, having Lucas alongside me will ensure we have a good chance at racing towards the pointy end."

The Gold Coast 600, held in late October, features unique regulations which require teams to run both a series regular driver and an 'international' co-driver. Di Grassi joins other ex-Formula One drivers Max Papis, Gianni Morbidelli, Sebastien Bourdais, Justin Wilson, Nick Heidfeld, Mika Salo, David Brabham and Stephane Sarrazin for the event.