Coulthard a 'big draw' in co-driver market

Fabian Coulthard's release from PremiAir Racing has opened the door for the veteran to be a key player in the co-driver market.

It was confirmed Thursday that Coulthard will be replaced at the new-look, Peter Xiberras-led team by compatriot Chris Pither.

Coulthard was released from his Team Sydney contract, with Xiberras starting the formerly Webb-owned team from scratch.

It ensures Coulthard will be without a full-time drive for the first time in over a decade.

However, he would be considered a top co-driver choice for the Repco Bathurst 1000 if he were to make himself available in the co-driver market.

Coulthard made select appearances for Paul Morris Motorsport in 2006 before completing the balance of the 2007 season with the team.

Coulthard has made 18 Bathurst starts and finished third in 2017

Two years at Paul Cruickshank Racing were followed by two years in the Walkinshaw fold, before he completed two long stints with Brad Jones Racing and DJR Team Penske.

He only completed a single season with Team Sydney in 2021, and finished 24th in the points.

Coulthard's situation mirrors that of the recent cases of Tim Slade and Lee Holdsworth, who were picked up by leading teams as co-drivers after they lost their full-time seats.

Slade's BJR exit in 2019 prompted DJR Team Penske to place him beside Scott McLaughlin for the 2020 Bathurst 1000. They finished fifth.

A year later, Holdsworth was recruited by Walkinshaw Andretti United after Tickford Racing downscaled to three cars. Holdsworth duly won the Great Race with Chaz Mostert.

Several teams have yet to confirm their full suite of drivers. One such suitor could be WAU, with Holdsworth returning to the full-time fold with Grove Racing.

'That someone like Fabs is available as a co-driver is a pretty big draw'

WAU recruit Nick Percat says teams will be champing at the bit to secure Coulthard's services.

"Obviously co-drivers are a massive part of your championship," Percat told Supercars.com.

"I'll find out soon about potential co-drivers for myself and Chaz.

"That someone like Fabs is available as a co-driver is a pretty big draw."

Coulthard has previous experience in Walkinshaw Commodores, and as mentioned, has driven for the likes of BJR and DJR.

A winner of 13 races, a veteran of 470 starts and a former Bathurst podium-finisher, Coulthard is among the most experienced and decorated drivers on the grid.

For Percat, Coulthard's availability represents a coup for any team which secures his signature, with Bathurst the only enduro on the 2022 calendar.

"I'd imagine a few teams will be after him. The guy hasn't forgotten how to drive," Percat continued.

"I'll pester Bruce [Stewart, WAU team principal] to find out more.

"It's a shame for Fabs with what's happened, but it's now a big opportunity for someone to grab him."

The 13-event 2022 Repco Supercars Championship will commence in Newcastle in March. Tickets for the event are on sale now.

CLICK HERE to view the 13-round draft 2022 calendar.