Motorsport: Nothing to prove, says Skaife

Mark Skaife at the launch of his new book. Photo / Getty Images

BATHURST - V8 Supercar legend Mark Skaife says he has nothing to prove in his much-discussed Bathurst 1000 return on Sunday.

Fellow Holden driver Paul Morris has been reported saying Skaife faces his biggest test going into the race without the backing of the powerful Holden Racing Team.

But the five-time Bathurst champion, speaking at the launch of a pictorial book focusing on his career, said this week was all about enjoyment, not pressure.

"This is the grand final, this is the mecca of Australian motorsport, and for me to come and drive here, I'm enjoying it," Skaife said after launching Mark Skaife: The Racing Years.

"It's easy for me. I don't own the team, I don't have to look after sponsors and stuff. I just have to bring my helmet and drive the car. It's not that hard."

The 42-year-old, who retired as a full-time driver in the championship series at the end of 2008, will return to Mount Panorama alongside long-time rival Greg Murphy.

Former V8 Supercar driver Mark Larkham, who works alongside Skaife as a race commentator for the Seven Network, said any suggestion Skaife had anything to prove on Sunday was laughable.

Using the new book as an example, Larkham said Skaife's career had already proved what a talented a driver he was.

"I hope as a result of this book out here today that this bloke can actually enjoy this weekend because there it is, he's done it," Larkham said.

As to future appearances at Bathurst, Skaife said nothing had been confirmed.

"I can probably do it for the next four or five years if I want," he said.

"If I'm fit and I'm enjoying it then I'll do that. We'll see how much, again, I enjoy this weekend and see what happens.

"I don't know what the next year looks like and therefore I don't know whether there is another chapter."

- AAP