Shane Olive, sidelined when Lamattina Top Fuel Racing cut back to a single entry for the 2023-2024 season, has been thrown a lifeline when team owner Santo Rapisarda decided to enter a third car at the Christmas Showdown meeting, at Sydney Dragway, December 2.

Rapisarda’s gesture will ensure there will be six entries in Top Fuel.

Olive, who spent two seasons with LTFR, will team with series leader Damien Harris and Wayne Newby.

“To first have the opportunity with the Lamattinas to race for two seasons was a dream come true,” said Olive. “And now, to drive for the Rapisarda family is another dream come true. It is a real honor to be asked to drive one of their cars."

Olive’s sole win with LTFR came at Heathcote Park Raceway in May 2022.

Rapisarda Autosport International leads the NDRC Top Fuel championship, with defending champion Harris in the top spot ahead of Newby.

“I also want to thank the Lamattina family for the opportunities they have given me, which has now opened up other doors and the chance from the Rapisarda family to drive one of their cars.”

"I don't have any big predictions for the weekend. I will just be focused on flying the flag for the Rapisarda family. Hopefully, we can have some clean runs and be up there at the end of the day with a trophy. That sure would be nice."