KEY POINTS:
New Zealand's embattled V8 Supercars series entrant Team Kiwi Racing (TKR) have lost a frantic bid to have a leased car ready for tomorrow's competition round in Sydney.
In another body blow for the struggling motorsport operation, TKR has been fined the mandatory A$150,000 ($170,000) for failing to enter the Eastern Creek leg after being unable to get their car up to standard.
TKR principal David John confirmed the leased BA Ford Falcon could not be fully upgraded to comply with V8 Supercar specifications despite mechanics and support crew working through the night.
"It was always going to be a massive task, and the reality is we're just out of time. We're not going to make scrutineering," John told Radio Sport.
He said work would continue on the Falcon in a bid to ensure it was ready for the next round of the competition at Darwin on June 22-24.
Should TKR not be able to front for that round they risk having their competition licence revoked.
TKR was forced to lease a car at late notice after Ford Performance Racing cancelled their engineering contract last week due to a dispute over money.
TKR's regular driver Paul Radisich also quit this week leading to speculation over who will be at the wheel if and when the upgrade is complete.
John said he has a driver ready to step in but would not reveal his identity.
TKR Racing are 10th on the championship points table after four rounds of the 13-round competition but will lose ground this weekend.
- NZPA
