THE ambitious project of former magazine publisher and racer Chris Lambden to create a viable, modern interpretation of the old thunderous Formula 5000 cars of a generation ago has received a couple of big boosts in recent days.

First comes confirmation from the well-regarded Birrana open-wheeler team owner, Malcolm Ramsay, that he will join the first group of people to pre-order an FT5000 car, a big show of support for the fledgling formula.

Open -wheel -Formula -Thunder -5000-driving

Commented Ramsay: “At last, an open wheeler with real muscle, which will provide drivers with a real challenge – if you can put one of these on pole, you will have earned it.

“Now we just need other serious teams and drivers to join us, for what I believe will be a terrific formula and series.”

In a further boost, the prototype FT5000 car recently completed a full 65-lap test day at Phillip Island without a single mechanical issue, dipping in to the 1m24s with driver Tim Macrow at the wheel.