Andretti and United buy into Walkinshaw Supercars squad

The Walkinshaw Racing squad, currently operating as HSV Racing, will be known as Walkinshaw Andretti United as of January 1 next year.

The move follows a number of rumoured changes in the ownership structure at Walkinshaw Racing, including a reported straight buy-out by United Autosports.

Instead, it's a split majority ownership between the current owners and US powerhouse Andretti, with United involved as a minority partner.

"To be able to partner with both Andretti Autosport and United Autosports is an honour," said Walkinshaw Racing chairman Ryan Walkinshaw.

"We’ve looked at what both companies have to offer the team moving forward, which is why everyone should be so excited. 

"This combination of international expertise is a pivotal step in accelerating our development, getting us where we need to be. We’ve been looking for partners who can add value to the team both on and off the track, so to be able to find that so resoundingly is the most pleasing element. 

"United Autosports and Andretti Autosport’s experience, knowledge and record both on and off the race track, gives us, our current partners and any future partners access to global networks and talent pools.”

United boss Zak Brown added that he's excited to be involved in a partnership that covers three continents.

“I’m delighted United Autosports have joined forces with Walkinshaw Racing and Andretti Autosport," said Brown. 

"It is bringing together three iconic names in motorsport across three continents – Europe, Australia and America, where we can share our experience and resources to make each team stronger.”

The HSV Racing squad currently fields two Commodores in the Australian Touring Car series, one for Scott Pye and one for James Courtney.

Walkinshaw Andretti United will become the second team in the Supercars pitlane with an American ownership stake, with Team Penske having bought in to Dick Johnson Racing back in 2015.