Courtney clarifies 'accidental' retirement announcement
Supercars
19 Jul
James Courtney leaves door open to future in Supercars
Courtney "accidentally" announced full-time retirement mid-week
BRT driver in 19th full-time season, contracted to 2025
James Courtney has left the door open to an extended future in Supercars despite "accidentally" announcing his full-time retirement.
The 2010 champion made headlines this week, revealing to 9News that 2025 would be his final season amid the beginning of a career in real estate.
Courtney is contracted to the Blanchard Racing Team to the end of 2025, with the veteran suggesting his current deal would be his last as he hopes to end his career "on my terms."
Speaking to media in Sydney on Friday, Courtney clarified his comments, but admitted he would “have a think” if offered a new deal with the Blanchard team.
"That was a bit of a mistake to announce the retirement at that point,” he said in Sydney.
"I was just talking about the real estate thing, and somehow I announced my retirement at the same time.
"You know, if Tim [Blanchard] wants to give me another deal at the end of this year, I'll have a think about it.”
Courtney remained realistic over his timeline, with the 15-time race winner turning 45 next year.
“I’m coming towards the end, I'll be 45 next year. Starting the real estate side of things with McGrath, which was fantastic,” said Courtney, who is in his 19th consecutive full-time season.
“So, starting to plan for the afterlife, and I announced it on national TV! So, yeah, I could have done something bigger and better and a bit of a farewell tour and all this sort of stuff.
"But yes, it turns out I accidentally announced my retirement."
Courtney will make his 252nd round start at this weekend’s Panasonic Air Conditioning Sydney SuperNight. Sydney action will commence on Friday, with 200km races to be held on Saturday and Sunday. Tickets are on sale now. International viewers can follow all the action on Superview.
