Brendan Lines

February 22, 2020

Red Bull Holden put an end to speculation yesterday as the team announced it will retain its championship winning drivers Jamie Whincup and Shane van Gisbergen for 2021.

Here to stay Shane van Gisbergen (left) Jamie Whincup (right) – Image: Red Bull

In what has been a tumultuous week for all Holden fans, there is finally some good news for the future of the brand’s top-flight team.

The 37-year old six-time champion Whincup has firmed up his commitment to the sport after recent speculation of retirement.

“My addiction for racing, speed and trying to beat my mates to the finish line started when I was seven years old,

“Any thought of finishing full-time driving this year doesn’t sit well with me,” he said.

Whincup’s impressive career record stands at 118 wins and 208 podiums over his 496-race appearance, while it’s may seem what more can he achieve at the highest level, Whincup says there is still plenty left in the tank.

“I feel I have plenty to offer this sport from behind the wheel,” Whincup said.

“While my full focus is on this year’s championship and delivering results for our teammates, sponsors and Red Bull Holden fan base, it’s great to know that all the fun will continue well into 2021.”

For van Gisbergen it was a very easy decision to resign with the team he won his first Supercars championship.

“It’s been an awesome few years with the Red Bull Holden Racing Team, and honestly there wasn’t much thought put into extending my contract for a few more years,” van Gisbergen said.

“I absolutely love this place and all the people in it, and the future looks exciting with the changes that look to be put in place.”

Van Gisbergen says remaining team mates with Whincup is good for the team as it hunts down its next Team’s championship.

“It’s always good to have someone like JDub (Whincup) by your side. We get along well together and he’s still as capable of being the fastest driver on the grid.

“It’s amazing to think that his driving is still at his peak level, so I think it’s a fantastic decision for him to keep competing for a few more years.”

Both Whincup and Van Gisbergen will go into this morning’s Qualifying 1 for a shot at the Top-ten shootout before Race 1 4.20pm CDST.