With Premier Racing Team disbanding in early November, Kuznetsov became hot property on the driver market, quickly being snatched up by 9ine 5ive Simsports, a move that will lead to success for both the team and driver.

Impressive on debut at Spa with a 9th place finish along with another top 10 at the inaugural ASRG Bathurst 1000, it’s been a difficult initial stint for the Ric Kuznetsov we all know. A driver more than capable of been a podium and top 5 threat week in and week out.

Belle isle was no exception for this rising star, with pace to burn and exceptional attacking flare Ric will be ruing the missed opportunity to convert on the pace he was able to show, finding himself unfortunately being caught out in late race drama along with teammate and team owner Shawn McNamara and Synergy Sim racing driver Jack Boyd. Although this resulted in a poor final finishing position, Ric again was able to show the potential and speed he has to offer.

We spoke to Ric Post race to hear his thoughts on how his season is going along with what 2023 has install for the 9ine 5ive driver.

Unfortunately a tough race for you at Belle Isle, but a lot of positives to come from it also. What in your thoughts do you think you can take away for future rounds and 2023?

Belle isle we showed good race pace but had a poor qualifying. For future rounds it’s definitely gonna be trying to optimise quali as best I can so I’m not in the chaos in the mid pack of the grid

Obviously disappointing to see the disbanding of Premier Racing Team. How are you finding being apart of the 9ine 5ive squad and how are you fitting in?

9ine 5ive have treated me awesome! Super thankful for Shawn giving me the opportunity to race in his team. It’s only been less than 3 weeks since I joined and I feel super comfortable with the whole team, got a bunch of great drivers in the team and we are all pushing each other for better results.

Your season so far, is it what you expected? How do you feel your season since joint has been?

The Logitech Pro Invitational definitely met my expectations, 40 of the best drivers in Australia battling it out for the top spot. I feel my season so far has been pretty solid, couple of top 10 finishes since I joined which was my goal when joining the series mid season.

You’ve got an excellent bunch of drivers within your team, along with some strong prospects for the immediate future. What sort of role do you depict yourself playing in helping develop these future stars?

Feel my role is to work with everyone in the team to push each others limits and work together to optimise the best possible result for the team

Finally 2023, what sort of expectations do you hold for the qualifying series?

My expectation is to make 2023 grid of Logitech pro invitational so need to get solid results in the qualifying series.

Thank you for your time Ric, it’s been great to watch your growth since joining the Logitech G Pro Invitational Series. All the best for the remaining race and we look forward to seeing you in full flight for the 2023 qualifying series.