EMA Motorsport will return to the Porsche Paynter Dixon Carrera Cup Australia for 2023 with an exciting two car entry confirmed.

The addition of a second Porsche 992 GT3 Cup to the team’s stable sees Garnet Patterson and Chris Pither paired for the full eight round calendar. Action starts over the Formula 1 weekend in Melbourne, 30 March-2 April.

The team debuted with the Porsche 992 GT3 Cup last season, putting on a strong display throughout the year with multiple podium results.

In the fight until the end, a double top-3 finish at the season finale secured 3rd in the championship. The team is now looking to build on this momentum, with the added benefit of running with a second car, to challenge for the outright title.

Garnet Patterson joins the team, driving the #74 Pilatus-sponsored entry.

The 29-year-old from New South Wales makes his championship debut, having previously campaigned in the LMP2 and LMP3 categories for the past few seasons. He kicked off his 2023 campaign with a podium finish at the Asian Le Mans Series event in Yas Marina, Abu Dhabi.

Finished in blue, black and green, the design of the #74 echoes the design of the team’s European efforts with the 911 GT3 R which campaigned at the 24 Hours of Spa and NLS8 at the Nürburgring during last season.

The second car, number #42, will be driven by Chris Pither.

The New Zealander boasts significant experience across multiple domestic classes and formulas, moving from his most recent outings in Supercars. This announcement confirms the 36-year-old will make his Carrera Cup debut in the 911 GT3 Cup at the first round at the Australian Formula 1 weekend in Melbourne next weekend.

Garnet Patterson, Porsche 911 (992) GT3 Cup #74

“It is something new for the 2023 season, but I’m looking forward to adding the challenge of Carrera Cup to my programme and racing at home in Australia, which I haven’t done in almost 10 years. EMA Motorsport have shown their strength throughout last season, finishing third in the championship and I’m looking forward to working with them to form a successful relationship into the future.”

Chris Pither, Porsche 911 (992) GT3 Cup #42

“I’m excited to join EMA Motorsport, and by the challenge of racing in the Porsche Carrera Cup for the first time. The car is very different to what I have become accustomed to in Supercars – simple points like being left hand drive – but, more so, the way the car makes its speed and how to maximise the tyre. It will be a steep learning curve, but I have high expectations and it’s great to stay active driving in a highly competitive championship.”