Aaren Russell leaves Erebus Motorsport following contractual dispute

Aaren Russell has left Erebus Motorsport following a contractual dispute, with his main sponsor Plus Fitness issuing a statement on the matter.

“Plus Fitness Racing has decided to withdraw its sponsorship with AR Racing and car #4 from the 2016 Supercar Championship due to ongoing contractual disputes between AR Racing and Erebus Motorsports,” read the statement.

The dispute is reported to have started during the Townsville race in connection to a promotional activity.

“A key determining factor for Plus Fitness in sponsoring a Rookie Driver in a Low Ranking Team was to rely on back of garage track activations. Plus Fitness have been restricted from doing this due to factors outside of their control and for reasons they believe are due to the relationship between AR Racing and Erebus Motorsport. This has also impacted on their decision to withdraw,” continued the statement.

Russell has commented the issue on his Facbook page, downplaying the controversy between the two parties.

“I’m not going to get into the nitty gritty but I’m happy with everyone’s decision. I have to thank Plus Fitness for everything they have done for me and will continue to do for me. They have my back and I have theirs,” wrote Russell.

“As for Erebus, I wish them all the best for the remainder of the year. Unfortunately it didn’t quite pan out the way we both expected, and our views differed from what we first agreed, to but things have ended on a positive note.”

Erebus Motorsport has not yet commented the issue but are in search of a new driver and sponsor for the #4 Holden Commodore in order to fulfil the terms of the V8 Supercars Racing Entitlements Contract.

Shae Davies, currently racing in the Dunlop Series, is rumoured to be first in line for the drive as he is already scheduled to drive the endurance races for the team.