10 Jan 2019

Richie Stanaway gets 2019 drive

6:26 am on 10 January 2019

The New Zealand driver Richie Stanaway will race in the Australian Supercars this year.

RICHIE STANAWAY (Monster Energy Ford). Supercheap Auto Bathurst 1000. 2017.

RICHIE STANAWAY (Monster Energy Ford). Supercheap Auto Bathurst 1000. 2017. Photo: Clay Cross / PHOTOSPORT

He'll replace 2007 Supercars champion Garth Tander at Garry Rogers Motorsport for the 2019 season.

The former factory Aston Martin sportscar driver parted ways with Tickford Racing after a tough rookie campaign last year.

But Stanaway has found a lifeline at Holden squad GRM alongside James Golding.

The deal comes thanks to a new sponsorship deal with Boost Mobile, which will replace Wilson Security as GRM's primary backer for 2019.

Reflecting on his 2018 season, Stanaway admitted that his approach had not been perfect but said he was committed to making the most of his second chance.

"I am excited and thankful to GRM and Boost Mobile for giving me a chance to race in one of the greatest championships in the world," said Stanaway.

"My approach last year and my attitude, which often stemmed from my own frustration, was the wrong approach at times. I apologise to the people and fans that supported me and believed in me.

"GRM and Boost Mobile have given me a chance and I am committed to give it 100% and do what it takes as a team to win."

Boost previously tried to orchestrate a deal to land Stanaway a seat at Walkinshaw Andretti United for 2018 before he joined Tickford.

The Stanaway/GRM deal comes at the expense of veteran Tander, who was expected to stay at the squad for at least another season.

Team owner Garry Rogers said the decision to move Tander aside for 2019 was tough, but one that he felt was best for the squad and its future.