Heimgartner to depart with 'huge goodwill': Grove

Stephen Grove has paid tribute to the departing Andre Heimgartner, saying the Kiwi will leave the team with "huge goodwill".

Kelly Grove Racing announced Tuesday that Heimgartner will leave the team at the end of the 2021 season.

The 2021 season has seen Heimgartner hit new heights in Supercars, with the Kiwi winning at The Bend Motorsport Park in May.

It marked not only Heimgartner’s first win, but the first victory for the team under its new Kelly Grove guise.

"This hasn't been an easy decision for either party"

From 2022, the Braeside operation will change once again, with the Kelly family selling its remaining stake to the Groves.

Team co-owner Grove said he was "proud" of everything Heimgartner had achieved in his four seasons with the team.

"This hasn't been an easy decision for either party but it became apparent over our discussions that it would be best for Andre and his career to start a new chapter and challenge," Grove said.

"When the time comes, he will leave us with my blessing and huge goodwill from every single member of the team.

"We're proud of everything Andre has achieved with Kelly Grove Racing, but for now, we continue to focus on the rest of the 2021 championship and finishing as strong as possible."

It throws a major twist in the unfolding 2022 silly season, with Heimgartner eyeing a seat for next year.

Tickford Racing, Walkinshaw Andretti United, Brad Jones Racing and Matt Stone Racing are all possible suitors for Heimgartner.

In a statement, the team team said it would make no further comment on its 2022 driver line-up.