Stoner DNFs in V8 debut

Casey Stoner’s V8 debut came to an abrupt halt after a punctured tyre saw him retire from the first race while in 13th place.

He got off to a good start, impressing by qualifying 12th around the Adelaide street circuit, then moving up to 10th by the first five laps.

However, he then dropped back to 13th, losing time through the slower section of the course and getting passed three times in four laps.

Then, on lap 12, he locked up and ran wide, puncturing a front wheel and forcing himself out of the race.

“I made a mistake and locked up big time going in to the last corner – not what everybody saw on TV… that was later,” said Stoner.

“I tried to save the tyres. I kept locking up here and there, even without any kind of brakes and unfortunately got too much flat spot on them and she popped on me.”

Stoner’s next race is at 12.35pm Adelaide time tomorrow.