Jamie Whincup has apologised for the explosive comments he made towards race officials and has avoided a fine and race suspension, it has been confirmed.
A decision to bring the matter to an end was agreed following a detailed discussion between Whincup, CAMS CEO Eugene Arocca and Supercars CEO Sean Seamer.
Whincup has apologised for his comments while all parties acknowledged that ‘mistakes were made and improvements required’, read a joint statement from Supercars and CAMS.
All parties have agreed to work together to reduce the likelihood of similar incidents occurring in future. Arocca has confirmed he will oversee a complete debrief on the events at Pukekohe.
Whincup will have to observe firsthand how CAMS officials operate in race control as apart of the agreement reached.
Following his apology, CAMS has said it will not take the matter further.
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The same can be said for Cameron Waters, who has issued a written apology to CAMS for his comments after Race 24.
“I would like to offer my sincere apologies to the race control officials, and officials more broadly, for my comments following the recent Supercars round in Auckland,” said Whincup.
“While the comments were made in the heat of the moment following a long weekend, these kind of comments about our officials have no place in our sport.
“Everyone in the paddock is aware that we simply couldn’t compete without the dedication and sacrifices of all officials and I apologise unreservedly for any offence I have caused.”
Arocca says CAMS will conduct a detailed review into the Pukekohe Safety Car incident and will strive to maintain the highest standards of professionalism at race meetings.
“From grassroots motor sport through to Supercars events, our officials deserve everyone’s respect and support in what is often a thankless but undeniably important and difficult role,” said Arocca.
“We accept the right of competitors to dispute our decisions however, personal attacks on the professionalism of officials have no place in any sport.
“There is no doubt Jamie’s comments have upset many people however, having had the opportunity to speak to him I know that he is genuinely remorseful for the offence he has caused, particularly in race control.
“We will take the opportunity to debrief the weekend and review all matters leading up to the deployment of the safety car, particularly given the unique nature of Pukekohe.
“We will always strive to do our best and continue to maintain the highest standards of professionalism in overseeing one of the most passionate and competitive race competitions in the world.”
Supercars CEO Sean Seamer added: “Eugene and I sat down to discuss the events that occurred on Sunday at Pukekohe. We agree that sometimes people get it wrong in any sport, whether it is motorsport, football, cricket or any code.
“Players, drivers, officials and administrators, irrespective of the tools and capabilities they have access to, make mistakes. No one is perfect.
“In a sport like ours, driven by passion, these errors can and do get amplified. Eugene and I have discussed the various incidents that occurred on Sunday and we agree this was such a case.
“Ultimately, the rules are the rules and we support CAMS and its officials in the implementation and application of those rules. We look forward to discussing the outcome of CAMS’ review and debrief of the race.”
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