Ingall, Lowndes ink long-term deals

Ingall will remain aboard a Ford until at least the end of 2008, while triple champion Lowndes will be in a Triple Eight Racing Falcon until at least the end of 2009.

With the departure of two-time V8 Supercar champion Marcos Ambrose to the NASCAR Craftsman Truck series in the USA this year, Ford have moved to ensure that it holds on to the talents of the top two drivers in last year's championship.

"I'm delighted to make this announcement as it secures two of our stars for the future," said Ford Australia President Tom Gorman at the opening of the Melbourne International Motor Show.

"Russell and Craig gave Ford a great one-two punch in 2005; we certainly expect that to continue through the next few years."

Ingall and Lowndes's long-term commitment comes after both were long-term drivers for the oppposition: Lowndes was a Holden Racing Team driver for seven years whilst Ingall spent eight years at Castrol Perkins Racing in a Holden before they moved to Ford in 2000 and 2003 respectively.

With three successful years at Stone Brothers Racing behind him, Ingall was pleased to stay a Ford driver for the next three years: "An announcement like this is a great way to start my title defence.

"I came to Ford in 2003 for one reason and that was to win a championship. In saying that, I'm keen for more success, especially after watching my teammate Marcos Ambrose win two straight titles.

Meanwhile, Lowndes's commitment to Triple Eight comes after just one season together in which he finished runner-up to Ingall, having had mixed results in previous teams for Ford.

"We achieved far more than I ever imagined in the first twelve months, so the next four years will hopefully be even better," said Lowndes.

"While it has taken me a while to find consistent success with Ford, I really enjoy the vehicles and love working with the Ford Racing group.