When news broke last week that reigning Supercars champion Brodie Kostecki would split with Erebus, the team acted quickly to clarify that, at this point in time, the New Zealander would only miss the opening round at Bathurst.
This was followed by a statement from Howard, which appeared to suggest that Kostecki was suffering a mental health issue in relation to defending his title – something which is understood not to be the case.
In recent days, Erebus has lost key sponsors including Coca-Cola, Shaw and Partners and Southern Cross Truck Rentals. Boost Mobile, a long time backer of Kostecki, has also pulled out of negotiations to extend its naming rights deal for the Surfers Paradise Gold Coast 500.
Following widespread criticism of the championship’s perceived silence on the matter and suggestions that it was biased towards Erebus, Howard has sent an open letter to fans in a bid to calm the waters.
“I want to address the recent developments between Brodie Kostecki and Erebus Motorsport that resulted in Brodie not racing for the Erebus team at the upcoming Thrifty Bathurst 500,” he wrote.
“The situation has garnered significant attention and speculation, and I feel it's crucial from a Supercars perspective to provide clarity and context.
“I've personally been in confidential dialogue with Brodie both leading into and following the announcement. I've also had extensive discussions about the matter over recent weeks with Erebus Motorsport management, including Barry Ryan and Betty Klimenko.
“There have been suggestions that Supercars hasn't engaged in these conversations or has taken sides. This is simply incorrect and misleading.
Source: Autosport