RICHIE Stanaway’s tenure at PremiAir Racing has come to an unceremonious end.
The 33-year-old Kiwi has been released with immediate effect following the Gold Coast 500.
Stanaway sits just 22nd in the championship through 11 rounds and was already confirmed to be getting cut loose at season’s end.
“PremiAir Racing wishes to advise that, following discussions with Richie Stanaway after the Gold Coast 500, he will step away from the team with immediate effect, bringing his time with PremiAir Racing to an early conclusion,” read a team statement.
Richie Stanaway aboard the #62 Camaro. Pic: Mark Walker
“As previously outlined prior to the Gold Coast event, Richie was set to depart the team at the end of the 2025 season following the decision not to take up the 2026 option on his contract. That announcement also confirmed that PremiAir Racing would welcome Jayden Ojeda and Declan Fraser as its two full-time drivers for the 2026 season.
“The team will confirm Richie’s replacement driver for the remaining 2025 events in the coming days. This decision will ensure continuity while maintaining our focus on building strong momentum into next season.
“PremiAir Racing thanks Richie for his efforts during his time with the team and wishes him all the best in his future endeavours.”
The above statement would indicate Stanaway’s replacement for the upcoming Sandown 500 will likely be either Ojeda or Fraser.
The next step for Stanaway, who won the 2023 Bathurst 1000 with Shane van Gisbergen, is not yet known.
James Golding meanwhile is heading for a fresh start at the Blanchard Racing Team in 2026.
PremiAir, which is preparing for the arrival of Roland Dane as team principal, has confirmed it will stick with General Motors next year.