Supercars larrikin David Reynolds has cut ties with Erebus Motorsport just one season into a 10-year deal – the longest driver contract in Australian motor racing history.
The 2017 Bathurst 1000 champion signed a “lifetime” deal to stay with the team at the end of 2019, but things didn’t go to plan this year.
Reynolds endured a torturous 2020, failing to win a race in his Holden Commodore ZB and finishing 12th in the points standings.
Erebus owner Betty Klimenko said it was a regrettable decision to part ways with Reynolds after five seasons.
“Unfortunately David has decided that his future lies elsewhere and we do not wish to stop him taking another path,” she said.
“David needs to do what is best for him and we need to do what is best for our team’s future and long-term stability.”
Reynolds said it was a difficult call but one he had to make.
“My preference has been to stay at Erebus but unfortunately it is time for me to move on,” the 35-year-old said.
“The team are a fantastic bunch of people that I’ve built really strong relationships with and I am proud of what we have been able to achieve together.”
Erebus was already looking for one driver after Anton De Pasquale left in November to join Dick Johnson Racing’s post the Scott McLaughlin-era.
Klimenko says Erebus will confirm its 2021 driving line-up in coming days.