1 November, 2014: On this day 10 years ago, two-time V8 Supercars Champion, Marcos Ambrose, returned from a eight-year stint in NASCAR to unveil an Xbox sponsored FG Falcon wildcard that he would be driving at the 2014 NRMA Sydney 500 season finale. The wildcard opportunity came about (incredibly) with the help of Ambrose's arch rival, Mark Skaife who helped secure the sponsorship from Microsoft.
Little did anyone realise at the time that this wildcard entry was a stepping stone to Roger Penske’s partnership with Dick Johnson Racing (DJR), which ultimately hinged on Ambrose joining the team as a full-time driver. The wildcard served as an early hint of Penske’s strategic interest in Australian motorsport, leading to his transformative investment in DJR.
Ambrose would go on to finish 20th, 21st and 16th respectively in the three races, perhaps more a reflection of where DJR were at as a team than of how rusty he was.
APEX Replicas released a 1:18 sealed resin model of Ambrose's car (AD80611) in mid 2015 for $160. The quality wasn't great, partly due to being resin - a lack of clear shutlines for bonnet, doors and boot are a giveaway. However, it was the execution of the satin paint which was dull and the strangely high-profile tyres and toy-like wheels and brakes that missed the mark. Regardless, it's an important piece of DJR history and is the link between the 'old' team and the future with Penske.
Today, prices are firmly in the $200 range, with some new stock available for significantly less.
