The emperor's new clothes

Bottle-O sign on with Mark Winterbottom for 2016 V8 championship defence

Hot from their breakthrough V8 Supercars championship win over the weekend, Prodrive Racing Australia and Mark Winterbottom have wasted no time in taking the covers off their new-look 2016 Ford Falcon FG-X — which sports new backing from liquor outlet Bottle-O.

The change comes after a fruitful four-year relationship with Pepsi Max, which included two Bathurst 1000 victories (2013 and 2014), as well as the 2015 championship crown.

“The Bottle-O has been a supporter of our team for many years so I am looking forward to representing them as I defend my title. It is great to have the commitment of a brand that sees such value in our team, so I am sure we’ll have a fun and successful 2016,” said Winterbottom.

A look at Winterbottom's refreshed race suit. Photo / Bottle-O Racing

2016 marks the company's ninth year as a primary sponsor, after supporting the likes of Tony D'Alberto, Paul Dumbrell, and most recently David Reynolds.

“Today is a great day for our team and The Bottle-O as we get to show the number one on our car for the first time and also reveal their involvement with Mark for next season and beyond," added team owner Rod Nash.

"Every team fights to have the number one on the car and we’ve got it after years of hard work so it is great reward for everyone.

“We are launching a new era today and I want to thank The Bottle-O for their long-term commitment to my team and motorsport fans. Together we have one of the longest-serving partnerships in V8 Supercars."