Golding announces PremiAir Racing exit

James Golding has announced his departure from PremiAir Racing at the end of the 2025 Repco Supercars Championship season.

In another twist to the rapidly developing silly season, Golding confirmed he will not return to the Peter Xiberras-owned squad in 2026.

The Golding news comes amid a frantic 24 hours that has seen Cameron Hill and Bryce Fullwood depart Matt Stone Racing and Brad Jones Racing respectively, with Hill confirmed at BJR on Wednesday morning.

After making his full-time main game debut with Garry Rogers Motorsport in 2018, Golding rejoined the fold midway through 2022 at PremiAir after replacing Garry Jacobson.

Golding took PremiAir to new heights in 2024, claiming the team's maiden pole position in Darwin and maiden podium at Sandown, en route to seventh in the championship.

He recently emerged as a favourite to take the retiring James Courtney's spot at Blanchard Racing Team in 2026, with seats also unconfirmed at Team 18, Matt Stone Racing and BJR.

In a statement provided to Supercars.com, Golding said his decision was clear after careful consideration of his career direction.

“I am grateful to PremiAir Racing for giving me the opportunity to get back into the Supercars Championship” the 29-year-old said.

“The past few years have been an invaluable experience for me as a driver.

"The journey has certainly had its challenges with the team still in the early stages of its development, but I’ve learned a great deal along the way that has helped me grow both on and off the track.

"I want to thank everyone at PremiAir Racing and all the sponsors for their support over the years. We’ve shared some great memories together, and I’m proud of our achievements.

“At the same time, I feel it’s the right moment to take the next step in my career. This hasn’t been an easy decision, but one that I believe is best for my long-term future.

"My focus now is on the remainder of the season and delivering the best results I possibly can."

The announcement confirms PremiAir will have at least one new driver for 2026, with the team also yet to commit to General Motors for the upcoming season. Richie Stanaway, who joined in 2025, recently told Supercars.com he was optimistic over his future, amid suggestions of a double change.

Xiberras recently told media his team will likely make a driver announcement between Bathurst and the Gold Coast.

Golding is currently 16th in the drivers' standings heading to the Repco Bathurst 1000 on October 9-12.