Triple Eight takes legal action against ex-engineer
Triple Eight Race Engineering has stated David Cauchi is in breach of his ongoing contractual obligations.
Cauchi moved to Grove Racing in the off-season, having departed Red Bull Ampol Racing.
The decorated engineer was recruited by Grove Racing as its new team principal.
The deal was announced in October last year, some four months before the 2022 season opening Sydney event.
Cauchi, who led Shane van Gisbergen to championship glory in 2021, is understood to have been instructed to undergo six months of 'gardening leave'.
However, he made an appearance at pre-season testing at Winton last week.
He is also present at Sydney Motorsport Park for this weekend's 2022 season opener.
In a short statement, Cauchi's former employer says legal action has already commenced.
"Triple Eight Race Engineering is of the view that David Cauchi is in breach of his ongoing contractual obligations to the Team," the statement reads.
"Triple Eight has instructed its lawyers to take immediate steps to protect the Team’s legitimate business interests.
"We won’t be making any further statements until the matter is determined by the Court.
Cauchi with Grove Racing at Winton
"Triple Eight’s priority is our on-track performance and we remain fully focused on delivering the best possible results at this weekend’s Sydney SuperNight."
In a return statement, Grove Racing said: "It is a private issue between David Cauchi and Triple Eight and it is a legal matter between the parties, Grove Racing will make no comment at this stage."
Speaking to the broadcast, new Triple Eight boss Jamie Whincup admitted the situation is a "distraction".
"We’re here to go racing, we’ve had a few months off, we’re really pumped about getting out on track," the retired driver said.
"There’s all that stuff going on behind the scenes, but you don’t have to worry about that when you’re a driver.
"Plenty goes on behind the scenes in running a Supercars team."
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