MOTORSPORT Australia has reshuffled its resources as it prepares to facilitate a return of Targa tarmac rallies.
Former rally driver Adrian Coppin has been shifted from the position of Events Manager to a newly created role: General Manager – Events, Rally & Off Road.
Included in that portfolio will be the implementation of the many Targa Review recommendations, with the tarmac rally category set for a comeback later this year.
Tarmac rallies were suspended in May last year amid investigations into a spate of fatal crashes.
Coppin will also continue to have responsibilities with the Bosch Motorsport Australia Rally Championship, Polaris Motorsport Australia Off Road Championship and Shannons SpeedSeries.
“I’ve loved every minute working with Motorsport Australia in recent years and this new role will be a wonderful challenge to take onboard,” said Coppin.
“I look forward to working closely with the very talented event organisers and competitors across the country, including delivering the return of Targa style tarmac rallies here in Australia.
“We have a great team of people at Motorsport Australia and there is certainly real positivity about what lies ahead in the short and long term for our sport.
“I can’t wait to get started in this new chapter of my career.”
Motorsport Australia director of motorsport and commercial operations Michael Smith added: “Adrian is a well-respected and highly credentialled operator who has been doing great things in motorsport.
“We are delighted to have Adrian take on an important role that will have significant impacts and influence on motorsport in Australia.
“The recent resurgence of the Bosch Motorsport Australia Rally Championship is certainly in part thanks to Adrian’s hard work and strategic vision.
“We are confident that same vision will be integral to the return of Targa style tarmac rallies, as well as taking Motorsport Australia’s other key events to the next level.”
