The 46-year-old was dumped in April as the Western Australian team signed Warrnambool’s Jamie Veal in a shock move.

Tatnell – a former Sydneysider who is based entirely out of Minnesota – said victory in the South West Conveyancing Grand Annual Sprintcar Classic was his sole aim.

“It’s always been about chasing the big prize,” Tatnell told The Standard.

“The business of sprintcars is far too expensive and time-demanding if you’re not going to put 120 per cent into every single race. 

“There’s never been a person in the history of the sport who has won 100 per cent of their races, but you’ve got to be striving to win every single time.”

The three-time classic champion – who took out the prestigious race in 1995, 1999 and 2009, revealed he was excited for a “fresh start” with a new-look team and car.

Tatnell will again link up with long-time crew chief Pete Caporn under the Scotts Motorsport banner.

“It’s going to be different after leaving (Krikke) who you’ve been with for 12 years,” he admitted. “Sometimes with change comes opportunities and excitement. I’ve always enjoyed coming down to Warrnambool.

“This is what I do for a job. It’s not a scenario of having fun and games – it’s about business. It’s about paying the bills for me. 

“I wouldn’t travel halfway around the world without my family with me if I wasn’t serious about winning.”

With several dates in his sights leading up to the classic, Tatnell will jet into Melbourne on January 10.

“You need experience to win the classic and we’ve got that experience,” he said.

“But we’re under no illusions as to how tough it will be.”