When information broke final week that reigning Supercars champion Brodie Kostecki would split with Erebus, the group acted shortly to make clear that, at this time limit, the New Zealander would only miss the opening round at Bathurst.
This was adopted by a press release from Howard, which appeared to counsel that Kostecki was struggling a psychological well being concern in relation to defending his title – one thing which is known to not be the case.
In latest days, Erebus has misplaced key sponsors together with Coca-Cola, Shaw and Companions and Southern Cross Truck Leases. Enhance Cell, a very long time backer of Kostecki, has additionally pulled out of negotiations to increase its naming rights deal for the Surfers Paradise Gold Coast 500.
Following widespread criticism of the championship’s perceived silence on the matter and solutions that it was biased in the direction of Erebus, Howard has despatched an open letter to followers in a bid to calm the waters.
“I wish to deal with the latest developments between Brodie Kostecki and Erebus Motorsport that resulted in Brodie not racing for the Erebus group on the upcoming Thrifty Bathurst 500,” he wrote.
“The scenario has garnered vital consideration and hypothesis, and I really feel it is essential from a Supercars perspective to offer readability and context.
“I’ve personally been in confidential dialogue with Brodie each main into and following the announcement. I’ve additionally had intensive discussions in regards to the matter over latest weeks with Erebus Motorsport administration, together with Barry Ryan and Betty Klimenko.
“There have been solutions that Supercars hasn’t engaged in these conversations or has taken sides. That is merely incorrect and deceptive.
Brodie Kostecki, Erebus Motorsport Chevrolet Camaro ZL1
Photograph by: Edge Photographics
“The continued nature of this example, between Brodie Kostecki and Erebus Motorsport which is but to be resolved, is why not one of the events concerned will touch upon the matter presently.
“We respect the rights of all particular person events, together with their discretion to resolve issues in a confidential method.
“Efforts are persevering with to be made to facilitate and encourage the events to discover a sensible and workable resolution in the perfect pursuits of all stakeholders.
“There was appreciable commentary on this matter, and a few of it has been disappointing. We urge everybody to strategy this example with understanding, empathy and endurance it deserves.
“The circumstances at hand are in the end a matter between the homeowners and administration of Erebus Motorsport and their contracted driver, Brodie Kostecki. Supercars has supplied our full help to all events and can proceed to take action.
“Racing is a ardour that needs to be loved by everybody, be it as a spectator, volunteer, sponsor, group proprietor, worker, or driver.”
Erebus started its pre-season preparations on Monday, operating a predominantly white-liveried Chevrolet Camaro at Winton.
The group changed Triple Eight-bound Will Brown with Jack Le Brocq, whereas Todd Hazelwood will fill in for Kostecki within the opening spherical at Bathurst.