Social media has lit up with praise for Victorian-based Supercars teams and drivers who made a last-minute move to New South Wales overnight.
Erebus Motorsport, Kelly Racing, Team 18, Tickford Racing, and Walkinshaw Andretti United are all set to move into Sydney Motorsport Park this week following an 11th-hour border closure.
Brad Jones Racing drivers Nick Percat and Todd Hazelwood have also been forced to move with a border closure coming into effect for Melburnians from 23:59 local time/AEST on July 6.
The border will be closed to all Victorians from 23:59 local time/AEST on July 7.
In the wake of yesterday’s move, Scott McLaughlin voiced his appreciation for the Victorian-based teams.
The two-time Virgin Australia Supercars Championship winner was one of a host of drivers, teams, and personalities connected with the sport to express their thanks.
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“Don’t ever question the commitment some drivers, crew members and (families) have for our sport,” McLaughlin wrote.
“What the Victorian teams have sacrificed, allows the sport we love (to) continue, provide entertainment for us all, and a job for (the) majority of the people in Supercars. Thank you.”
Supercars presenter Riana Crehan also paid tribute to those affected by the sudden move.
“My heart is with all the Vic drivers/team personnel right now,” she wrote.
“This has been the most stressful time of our lives and it’s just got a whole lot scarier a for you.
“Support each other, reach out if you need. This is not a normal time and it’s ok to feel unsure.
Likewise to all the families that have just said goodbye to their dads, mums for an unknown time. Lots of love to you all.”
Tickford Racing driver Lee Holdsworth was among those forced to move out of Melbourne not knowing when he’ll be back home.
“Leaving home without a return date is strange,” he tweeted.
“Might be weeks, might be months! Some big sacrifices from all team members so we can keep doing what we love.”
It’s not yet known how long the teams will be based out of Sydney Motorsport Park for, but the move ensures the Truck Assist Sydney SuperSprint can go ahead on July 18-19.
Don’t ever question the commitment some drivers, crew members and family’s have for our sport. What the Victorian teams have sacrificed, allows the sport we love continue, provide entertainment for us all and a job for majority of the people in @supercars, Thank you 🙏🏻 #VASC pic.twitter.com/CCvyU12cl9
— Scott McLaughlin (@smclaughlin93) July 6, 2020
Thank you to the Victorian based @supercars teams for your sacrifice to keep us racing! 🙏🏼#RedBullHolden #VASC pic.twitter.com/QJFYmqcBSF
— Red Bull Holden (@redbullholden) July 6, 2020
Today we had to tell our @FollowWAU crew that they had pack the transporters, go home pack their bags, say goodbye to their families and leave home suddenly for an unknown amount of time so we can continue racing. Huge commitment by them for the team, and for our fans. Thank you.
— Ryan (@RyanWalkinshaw) July 6, 2020
My heart is with all the Vic drivers/team personnel right now. This has been the most stressful time of our lives and it’s just got a whole lot scarier a for you. Support each other, reach out if you need. This is not a normal time and it’s ok to feel unsure.
— Riana Crehan (@rianacrehan) July 6, 2020
To the wives, partners, kids & families that may not see their Mum, Dad or better half for a while thank you so much for the support. And to those about to hit the road (for who knows how long) we appreciate the passion & commitment to keeping the show on the road. #vasc https://t.co/lXYP7DEKEi
— Greg Rust (@Thrusta1) July 6, 2020
If there ever was a time to get behind a @supercars team, now is the time! The sacrifices being made from @KellyRacingAus, @PenriteRacing, @FollowWAU and @TickfordRacing to keep the season going are incredible. Do your part by purchasing something from their stores! #VASC
— Trackside Towtruck ™ (@VASCTowtruck) July 6, 2020
Hey Mum! I’m home! Hope you don’t mind me staying here for a couple of months… #borderjump #safefromnosymptoms pic.twitter.com/seAZFQHrUs
— David Reynolds (@daffidreynolds) July 6, 2020
Leaving home without a return date is strange. Might be weeks, might be months! Some big sacrifices from all team members so we can keep doing what we love
— Lee Holdsworth (@LeeHoldsworth) July 6, 2020
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