Walkinshaw Racing remains committed to fielding two Commodores in the Virgin Australia Supercars Championship in 2017 and beyond following today’s announcement by Holden to end its sponsorship of the team at the end of 2016.
Ryan Walkinshaw, Team Owner, has explained that while change is inevitable, he was respectful of the decision and retains a sense of optimism towards the future and Walkinshaw’s relationship with Holden.
“After fielding Holden’s official factory team for 26 years we are naturally disappointed but respect Holden’s decision. We are rightly proud to have enjoyed a wonderful relationship with Holden over the years, and have enjoyed many successes together,” said Walkinshaw.
“While our official motorsport partnership may have ended, our relationship with Holden remains strong and we continue to work closely on future road vehicle initiatives in line with our HSV business.”
Mark Bernhard, Chairman and Managing Director of Holden re-affirmed Walkinshaw’s comments,
“Holden is extremely proud of our long history with Walkinshaw Racing and our many on-track successes. While the decision to end our official factory team partnership was difficult, we continue to work on exciting road vehicle programs via our HSV relationship.”
In terms of Walkinshaw’s commitment to continue racing, Walkinshaw was unequivocal.
“Walkinshaw Racing has fielded the most successful Supercar teams in the sport’s history, with over 260 race wins, eight Championships, and nine Bathurst 1000 victories. Racing is in our blood. We love competition, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to find our way back to the top of Supercars,” said Walkinshaw.
“With change comes opportunity, and we are as committed as ever to deliver on the track. We also look forward to working with our other partners to re-define how we add value to their businesses in the future, as we obviously now have a real opportunity to innovate our commercial programs.”
