Drivers pay tribute to 'nicest guy in pit lane'

Several Supercars drivers have paid tribute to Lee Holdsworth following his exit from Tickford Racing.

Tickford confirmed Thursday that Holdsworth will leave the team, just seven weeks out from the start of the 2021 season.

In a post to social media, the 471-race start veteran suggested his 15-year full-time run in the Supercars Championship has come to an end.

However, he hinted he has plans in place for a co-drive for the 2021 Repco Bathurst 1000.

Several of his rivals replied to the post, highlighting Holdsworth’s respected standing in the Supercars paddock.

Long-time friend, ex-Garry Rogers Motorsport team-mate and former co-driver Michael Caruso lauded the 37-year-old: "[You’re] a good man Holdsy."

"That sucks mate, feel for you. See you at the mountain," Team Sydney-bound Fabian Coulthard wrote.

Outgoing Erebus driver David Reynolds said: "You will be missed... one of the good guys."

"Sorry to hear. Like everyone said, the nicest guy in pit lane, hope to see you at the mountain," former Tickford team-mate Chaz Mostert added.

"Well batted Holdsy, you’re a bloody champion. All the best for 2021," James Moffat posted.

More drivers responded, with Tickford Super2 young gun Broc Feeney praising Holdsworth's input into the teenager’s Bathurst 1000 debut last year.

"Very sad to see you go mate. Thanks for teaching me so much last year," wrote Feeney, who co-drove the #44 Boost Mobile Tickford Mustang with James Courtney in 2020.

Dick Johnson Racing recruit Will Davison said: "You will be massively missed brother, you are absolute class on and off the track.

"Although it's not right, be proud of the journey so far and the amount of respect that everyone has for you. Look forward to seeing you back for Bathurst, still driving as well as ever."

Brad Jones Racing's Todd Hazelwood wrote: "Sorry to see mate, one of the best blokes in pit lane. Will miss the battles on track, all the best for the future."

Garry Jacobson added: "Dam. Really enjoyed racing you pal."

Jack Perkins said: "Decent innings Leethal, well played mate."

Tickford CEO and Team Principal Tim Edwards also farewelled Holdsworth, saying he was "saddened" by the driver's exit.

Tickford will revert to a three-car operation in 2021, with the driving line-up comprised of Jack Le Brocq in the #5 Truck Assist entry which Holdsworth had most recently occupied, Cameron Waters (#6 Monster Energy Mustang) and Courtney.