DAVID Cauchi will finish up as Grove Racing team principal at the end of the 2025 Repco Supercars Championship.
Rumours swirled all week at the Gold Coast 500 that Cauchi was set to leave and return to Queensland – suggestions which the Penrite-backed squad had rejected.
Mere days later, his impending departure has been confirmed, in order to “take on a new opportunity” – with details of that next move yet to be specified.
Having established himself as a championship-winning engineer across 14 seasons at Triple Eight, Cauchi joined the Groves as team principal in 2022.
He will remain at the helm for two more rounds, as the Ford outfit hunts championship glory with either Matt Payne or Kai Allen, both of whom have made it through to the Sandown semi-finals.
“Cauchi has been a huge part of our journey and someone I have enormous respect for, both personally and professionally,” said team owner Stephen Grove.
“Over the past four years, he’s helped us build a structure and culture that has delivered results, culminating in our Bathurst 1000 win this year.
“We’re proud of what we’ve achieved together and fully support him as he steps into his next role.
“He leaves the team in fantastic shape and with our complete backing.”
CEO Brenton Grove echoed those sentiments: “David has been a huge part of Grove Racing’s growth and evolution.
David Cauchi. Pic: Supplied
“His leadership has helped lay the foundations for the success we’re now building on, and it’s been great to share this journey with him. As he prepares for his next chapter, we’re completely supportive.
“He remains a key part of our plans through 2025, and we’ll work closely to ensure the team finishes this year in a manner consistent with his contribution.”
Cauchi himself said: “The past four years with Grove Racing have been some of the most rewarding of my career.
“To play a part in the team’s growth and to celebrate a Bathurst win together is something I’ll always be proud of.
“After a lot of discussion with Steve and Brenton, I feel the timing is right to take on a new opportunity beyond 2025.
“The team is in a fantastic place and well positioned for the future, and I’m looking forward to finishing the season strongly before starting my next chapter.
“I’m extremely grateful to the entire Grove family for the trust and support they’ve shown me throughout this journey.”