Hi-Tec Oils branding was suddenly removed from the championship. Image: Supplied
On Thursday, all Hi-Tec Oils branding was removed without explanation from the series’ various social media platforms and website, rebranding simply as the AASA Race Series.
The Australian-owned lubricant brand had been the title sponsor of the championship since its inception in 2023, and more recently had taken on promotion duties through its Hi-Tec Oils Motorsport branch.
AASA has confirmed that promotion of the series has been brought back under the governing body’s control, while also confirming a title sponsor for the upcoming Fight in the Night event.
“AASA has made the decision to bring back the series in-house and rebrand the championship as the AASA Race Series, with a continued commitment to its competitors,” a AASA statement explained.
“We thank Hi-Tec Oils for its support of the series over the last few seasons.
“Our exclusive insurance partners, Enthusiast Motor Insurance, will be in attendance as the round sponsor of the Fight In The Night at Queensland Raceway, August 14-16.
“We thank Enthusiast Motor Insurance for its support and we’re excited for what’s to come.”
What the loss of Hi-Tec branding and promotion entails for the remainder of the season remains to be seen.
Two rounds remain following Fight in the Night. However, Round 5 at Winton is in doubt amid the ongoing AASA sale saga involving track owners Benalla Auto Club.
Fight in the Night will be held at Queensland Raceway on August 14-16, headlined by the Australian Endurance Championship’s three-hour enduro under lights.