Angel Porter took some time to address questions regarding new team for 2017, Team Porter. The team was announced a few weeks ago, but no information has surfaced beyond that point. The team has no drivers committed to it, and today the owner/driver explained why.
News Reporter: Team Porter was announced as a support team to Coca-Cola Black Rose Racing in 2017. It's using the Black Rose Racing Team's European facility, the same Ferrari engines, but beyond that has been muted. What details can you give us on the team now that some time has passed?
Angel Porter: The team is in existence for a couple of reasons. Ferrari want a decent presence in the series. Two full time engines will not cut it for them, and at the same time, you can't force people to drive Ferrari engines. The team helps alleviate that for them. It cuts down on costs for Black Rose Racing as a whole, and the sponsors that exist on Coca-Cola Black Rose Racing do not carry over to Team Porter. That requires other funding, which will help us recoup our losses for doing a 5 car outfit in 2016. It's autonomous, but at the same time, still in principle a Black Rose Racing Team, which should make it easier to be successful.
News Reporter: Coca-Cola Black Rose Racing confirmed that yourself and Andrew Draco would occupy the team's two full time seats in 2017. It still has a limited drive seat, but Team Porter looks devoid. Any word on if the other three drivers will get a seat at Team Porter in 2017?
Angel Porter: At this particular moment in time, it's not likely. None of them bring substantial sponsorship, which is the first roadblock. Descoteau has voiced his unhappiness with the team moving to Ferrari power, and had made a previous attempt to leave the team in 2017. I consider that from a business perspective as a pre-release from contract, so his contract option will likely not be utilized. Birmingham has shown indifference to being in the series in general. I feel like there's no motivation, and that can be toxic to the team. Devereux can be very aggressive, aggravating, or very numb to what's going on in the series. There's no consistency, and the team desperately needs that. None of the three look capable of being a leading driver for the outfit. Ferrari and myself have voiced our desires to have the team be a front running, strong team. If that means doing what's best for business, then none of them get the seats.
News Reporter: If the team is looking for fresh blood, then who would you be looking at?
Angel Porter: Right now, I genuinely can't answer that. We have a broad list at the moment and that takes time to narrow down. I can't say who will or won't be in the seat. Time, and races, will tell the tale ultimately. There's a lot to do before we offer someone the pen and paper.
News Reporter: Does the team have any sponsors on board at all at the moment?
Angel Porter: No. The drivers will have to bring their own sponsorship. The team can search for associate sponsors after we've signed the drivers.