BRODIE Kostecki’s sudden return to action with Erebus Motorsport has left his stand-in Todd Hazelwood with “unfinished business”.
As revealed this morning, Kostecki will rejoin Erebus for the ITM Taupō Super400 later this month in a stunning twist to a lengthy saga.
Hazelwood had slotted into the car for the opening two rounds at Bathurst and Albert Park and was widely expected to complete the season.
He last week joined teammate Jack Le Brocq on a reconnaissance mission to Taupō, learning the Kiwi circuit before its debut on the calendar.
However, Kostecki’s return means the 28-year-old Hazelwood now reverts to the co-driving role for which he was originally signed.
It’s expected that Hazelwood will join Jack Le Brocq in car #9, with David Russell likely to partner Kostecki for a fourth straight year in what is now car #1.
The team had lined up Jayden Ojeda to join its co-driver roster – running an evaluation day for him pre-season – but now does not appear to have space for the two-time Bathurst 6 Hour winner.
“It’s been an awesome two rounds racing for Erebus Motorsport but it’s time for BK to step in for NZ!” wrote Hazelwood on social media.
“Glad to see Brodie Kostecki is fit and ready to go again and I’ll be back with the team for the Enduro season later this year for some unfinished business.”
Erebus CEO Barry Ryan thanked Hazelwood for his efforts across the opening two rounds, stressing that he remains part of the squad.
“A big thanks to Todd; he performed brilliantly under considerable pressure and scrutiny, so hats off to him,” said Ryan.
“We look forward to having him at the test day this week and back in the seat for the enduros later in the year.”
Hazelwood sits 11th in the drivers’ standings after six races with a best finishing position of sixth in the third of four races at Albert Park.
Le Brocq is eight points behind Hazelwood in 12th, combining to place Erebus fifth in the teams’ championship.
Erebus won the teams’ title in 2023 during a remarkable season in which Kostecki stormed to the drivers’ championship.
