Courtney confirms his departure from DJR

New V8 Supercars Champion James Courtney has confirmed that he has left Dick Johnson Racing.

Courtney wrapped up his maiden V8 Supercars crown at the Sydney Telstra 500 last week, securing DJR’s seventh V8/ATCC title and the team’s first in 15 years.

With Courtney set to head to the Toll Holden Racing Team in 2011, James Moffat is being touted as his replacement in the #18 Jim Beam Racing Falcon. CLICK HERE for more on Moffat/DJR.

While Courtney fell short of speaking on his 2011 plans, he did say that his future will be confirmed “in the very near future.”

Courtney said that he was pleased to be leaving Dick Johnson Racing on a positive note.

“Winning the championship with Jim Beam Racing this year is obviously one of the greatest highlights of my career so far,” said Courtney.

“We’ve had some amazing highs and some lows in my two seasons with Dick’s team – but we came out on top and delivered a championship by taking on the ‘big guys’ and beating them.

“But I never like sitting still and really feel it’s time for a new challenge – which will be revealed in the very near future. And it’s important to note that Dick, the team and myself have ended our professional relationship still with genuine mutual respect and a continuing real friendship … which is pretty unique in this sport.”

Courtney spent two years with Dick Johnson Racing, scoring two race wins in his first season, followed by six wins and 11 podiums this year.

In addition to winning the 2010 drivers title, Courtney was awarded V8 Supercars’ highest individual accolade, the Barry Sheene Medal.