Slade announces full-time retirement
Tim Slade announces retirement from Supercars after Adelaide
Veteran racer has two career victories to his name
Second PremiAir seat has been at the centre of silly season speculation
Tim Slade has announced the 2024 Repco Supercars Championship will be his last as a full-time driver.
The 39-year-old took to social media this afternoon to share the news, deciding now is the time to step away after making his debut in the championship in 2009.
"Ahhh car racing... Definitely provides a rollercoaster of emotions," said Slade in his statement.
"2024 is my 15th and will now be my last year competing full time in Supercars.
"I'm proud to have spent that length of time racing at the top level in Australia in one of the most competitive series in the world.
"I’m looking forward to finishing it off the best way possible in the remaining races this year and also for what’s to come next.
"I’m very appreciative to the many people that have made it all possible over the years, especially and firstly my Dad and secondly, James Rosenberg [long-time supporter]."
PremiAir Racing also confirmed the news via social media, with team owner Peter Xiberras thanking Slade for his role in boosting the young team towards the front of the grid.
"Since joining as our full-time driver in 2023, Tim has consistently impressed us with his race craft and commitment. We’re grateful for his contributions during a crucial time of growth for the team in this highly competitive sport," said Xiberras.
"We wish Tim all the best and are committed to helping him finish the 2024 season on a high, especially at the upcoming Bathurst 1000."
Slade has made 446 race starts in his Supercars career across 205 rounds, and has two career victories, both of which came at Winton in 2016 for Brad Jones Racing.
Slade made his debut at the 2009 Adelaide 500 for Paul Morris Motorsport, and has since driven for Stone Brothers Racing, Erebus Motorsport, Walkinshaw Racing, BJR, Dick Johnson Racing, Blanchard Racing Team, and PremiAir.
Slade's full-time career initially looked to be over at the conclusion of the 2019 season, when Brad Jones Racing opted to sign Todd Hazelwood.
However, a 2020 Bathurst 1000 co-drive with Scott McLaughlin proved a career lifeline, with Tim Blanchard signing Slade to spearhead his new team in 2021.
Slade currently sits 19th in the 2024 Repco Supercars Championship, and will share the #23 Nulon Camaro with Cameron McLeod at the Repco Bathurst 1000.
There has been plenty of speculation over who will pair with James Golding at PremiAir in 2025, with the likes of Mark Winterbottom, Richie Stanaway, and Scott Pye all rumoured to be under consideration by Xiberras.
