Tickford Racing’s Ambitious Plans for the 2025 Supercars Championship Finale

Tickford Racing is currently eyeing a wildcard entry for the upcoming finale of the 2025 Supercars Championship, scheduled to take place in Adelaide this November. This potential entry could feature a yet-to-be-announced NASCAR Cup driver, adding an exciting twist to the event. Simon Brookhouse, the CEO of Tickford Racing, shared insights on this ambitious plan during an event at Queensland Raceway on August 8th.

A Third Entry in the Supercars Championship

Tickford Racing operates two Ford Mustangs in the Supercars Championship, driven by Cameron Waters and Thomas Randle. The team has expressed interest in expanding its presence by adding a third car for the final race of the season. This move is not just about increasing the number of vehicles on the track; it represents an opportunity to introduce a NASCAR driver into the mix, which could elevate the profile of both the Supercars Championship and the NASCAR series.

Brookhouse mentioned, “We’d certainly love to run a programme,” highlighting the team’s eagerness to explore this opportunity. Last year, Tickford attempted to secure a wildcard entry but faced logistical challenges due to the close timing of the NASCAR season’s conclusion and the Adelaide race. However, this year presents a more favorable window, allowing for the possibility of executing their plans more effectively.

The Potential Choice of Austin Cindric

While no driver has been confirmed for the wildcard entry, there are indications that 2022 Daytona 500 champion Austin Cindric might be a strong candidate for the role. This speculation adds an intriguing layer to the story, as Cindric has a history of competing in Australia. Brookhouse noted, “There’s a little bit of water going in the bridge and nothing’s been confirmed, but we’re certainly working towards the possibility of that happening.”

The collaboration between Tickford Racing and Ford Performance is evident, as they are currently evaluating potential drivers who would be the best fit for this unique opportunity. Brookhouse emphasized the importance of leaving the final decision to Ford Performance, stating, “We’re not particular about the driver. We are really partnering with Ford Performance if it goes ahead.”

Building Bridges Between NASCAR and Supercars

The idea of introducing a NASCAR driver into the Supercars Championship aligns with Brookhouse’s vision of fostering a stronger relationship between the two racing series. He remarked, “I think for the relationship between NASCAR and Supercars, there’s a great opportunity there to start it.” By blending the talents of NASCAR drivers with the high-octane environment of Supercars, both series stand to benefit from increased exposure and fan engagement.

Brookhouse further elaborated on his aspirations for future collaborations: “If next year you could have a Toyota, a Chev and a Ford going around with NASCAR drivers, it’d be great.” This sentiment reflects a broader strategy to create pathways for drivers to transition between the two series, enhancing the competitive landscape and providing fans with thrilling races.

Past Attempts and Future Aspirations

While Tickford Racing’s current efforts are promising, the team is not new to the concept of wildcard entries featuring NASCAR drivers. Previous attempts to secure participation from notable NASCAR Cup champions like Kyle Larson and Kyle Busch have not materialized. Despite the challenges, Brookhouse remains optimistic about the potential for future collaborations.

Larson, a celebrated driver in the NASCAR circuit, is expected to be present in Adelaide this year to compete in a sprint car. However, efforts to include him as a third entry for the PremiAir Racing Chevrolet team have not been successful up to this point. This highlights the complexities and logistical challenges that often accompany such ambitious plans.

Austin Cindric’s Experience in Australia

Austin Cindric is no stranger to racing in Australia. In 2015, he participated in the Bathurst 12 Hour, where he achieved a commendable seventh-place finish in the AA Class while driving an Erebus Motorsport Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG. This prior experience could make him an ideal candidate for Tickford Racing’s wildcard entry, as familiarity with the Australian racing landscape can be a significant advantage.

Cindric’s history in Australian motorsport adds to the excitement surrounding the possibility of his participation in the Supercars Championship finale. His involvement would not only attract attention from NASCAR fans but also enhance the overall appeal of the event to a broader audience.

Tickford Racing’s Preparedness for Wildcard Entry

Tickford Racing is proactive in their approach to securing a wildcard entry. The team already has a car ready for competition, which they plan to utilize as a wildcard entry in this year’s endurance races. Regular Super2 drivers Rylan Gray and Lochie Dalton have been tapped to drive this vehicle, showcasing Tickford’s commitment to nurturing talent within the racing community.

Brookhouse mentioned that the team is in a collaborative effort with Ford Performance to ensure the best possible outcome for the wildcard entry. This partnership underscores the importance of strategic alliances in motorsport, where collaboration can often lead to innovative solutions and exciting opportunities.

The Future of Supercars and NASCAR Collaboration

The potential collaboration between Supercars and NASCAR represents a significant opportunity for both series to expand their reach and fanbase. Brookhouse’s vision for a future where drivers from both series can compete in one another’s events has the potential to create a dynamic racing environment that excites fans and elevates the sport.

As the motorsport landscape continues to evolve, the idea of cross-series participation could become more prevalent. The blending of different racing cultures and styles can lead to thrilling events that capture the attention of both domestic and international audiences. The upcoming Supercars Championship finale could serve as a crucial stepping stone toward realizing this vision.

Conclusion

Tickford Racing’s pursuit of a wildcard entry in the 2025 Supercars Championship finale underscores the team’s commitment to innovation and collaboration within the motorsport industry. With discussions surrounding potential drivers like Austin Cindric and a proactive partnership with Ford Performance, the team is taking significant steps toward making this ambitious plan a reality. The future of racing may see exciting opportunities for cross-series participation, further enriching the experience for fans and drivers alike. As the motorsport community eagerly awaits developments, the potential for thrilling races and new partnerships remains bright.