Chris Pither has ruled himself out of landing a full-time Supercars drive this season.
The New Zealander stepped up to the category on a full-time basis for the first time last year when he joined the Prodrive run Super Black Racing squad.
However, his Supercars future was dealt a blow when the New Zealand outfit, founded by the late Tony Lentino, folded and its Racing Entitlements Contract was subsequently sold to Tim Blanchard.
While full-time seats remain to be filled at Lucas Dumbrell Motorsport, the 30-year-old has confirmed that his efforts to secure a drive have failed.
Pither finished 21st in the championship standings last year with his highlight being a pole position at Queensland Raceway just days before team boss Lentino lost his fight with cancer.
“It is with mixed emotions that I write this evening,” read a statement from Pither on Facebook.
“I have been working hard since prior to Homebush last year but unfortunately have not secured a full-time Supercars drive for the 2017 season.
“After a positive rookie season and pushing for so long to get into the series I'm disappointed I couldn't continue for 2-3 years to really establish myself, but my childhood dream was to race in the series and looking back will always bring a smile, especially the pole position.”
Pither will however return to competitive action next weekend when he joins the privateer Nissan GT outfit Hobson Motorsport at the Liqui-Moly Bathurst 12 Hour.
“On a more exciting positive note, I really enjoyed pulling the helmet on for the first time last Tuesday to test the Hobson Motorsport Nissan GT-R NISMO GT3. I'm very excited to be joining the team for the Bathurst 12 Hour next weekend,” he added.
“It's going to be a massive event and I hope to see lots of you there.
“I really appreciate all your positive messages and comments, thank you for your support it really does mean a lot.”