Walkinshaw commits to two-car Supercars programme

Currently running under the Holden Racing Team banner, Walkinshaw Racing will be forced to drop the HRT moniker at the end of the season after losing its factory backing from Holden.

The Holden backing will instead head to the brand’s most successful team over the last six years, Triple Eight, which will field ‘Red Bull Holden Racing Team’ Commodores from 2017 onwards.

Walkinshaw Racing team owner Ryan Walkinshaw says that the team will carry on next season regardless of the Holden decision, with plans to run two Commodores into the future.

“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,” said Walkinshaw.

“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.

“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 redefine how we add value to their businesses in the future, as we obviously now have a real opportunity to innovate our commercial programmes.”

Disappointed with decision

Despite a bullish attitude towards carrying on beyond the end of the HRT deal, Walkinshaw admitted that he was disappointed with the outcome of Holden decision.

“After fielding Holden’s official factory team for 26 years we are naturally disappointed but respect Holden’s decision,” he added.

“We are rightly proud to have enjoyed a wonderful relationship with Holden over the years, and have enjoyed many successes together.

“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.”