Erebus, Chiko return to defend Bathurst crown

Erebus Motorsport and Chiko have reunited to put a new twist on the iconic livery that claimed a stunning victory in the fastest Repco Bathurst 1000 of all-time last year.

Brodie Kostecki and Todd Hazelwood combined to win the first-ever Bathurst 1000 to be run in less than six hours last year, leading 157 of the 161 laps in a dominant display.

This year, with Kostecki and Hazelwood both moving on to Dick Johnson Racing, young guns Cooper Murray and Jobe Stewart will step in to defend the crown for both Erebus and Chiko in the #99 Camaro.

The livery also features more flashes of gold in 2025, and was run at the opening round of the season in Sydney, which marked Murray's debut as a full-time Supercars driver.

“Bathurst is the race you dream about your whole life,” said Murray, who made his Bathurst debut alongside Craig Lowndes last year.

“To return in 2025 in these colours after what the team achieved last year is surreal. It’s a huge challenge, but we’re going in ready to give it everything.”

Meanwhile Stewart, who starred in his Supercars debut at The Bend, playing a major role in securing a seventh place finish for he and Murray, and has been widely linked to a promotion from Erebus' Super2 program next year.

“I’ve watched this race since I was a kid, and to now be making my debut in the Chiko Camaro is something I’ll never forget,” said Stewart, who will complete double duties in Super2 this weekend.

“It’s an incredible brand to represent, and I can’t wait to get stuck in with Cooper.”

The team have been steadfast in declaring their intentions to defend their Bathurst crown, with CEO Barry Ryan leading the charge throughout the season.

“Last year’s win with Brodie and Todd was amazing for the sport, for Erebus and for Chiko," said Ryan.

"This year, we approach the Mountain as underdogs again, but that’s what drives us. We’re proud to unveil this livery, the new Chiko Silverado, and to give fans a true Bathurst experience with Chiko at the centre of it.”

The Chiko activation will be set up in Harris Park all weekend, with Murray, Stewart, and team owner Betty Klimenko all scheduled to make appearances through the weekend.

Also on display will be a Chevrolet Silverado decked out in the Chiko livery, which has been dubbed the 'Chikorado'.

On-track action begins tomorrow at Mount Panorama, whilst fans can get a first glimpse at the Chiko livery at this afternoon's Track to Town activation from 5:30pm.