Edwards to leave Tickford Racing

After 19 seasons at the helm, Tim Edwards’ time at the top of Tickford Racing will come to an end at the conclusion of 2023.

Tickford revealed Edwards will depart from his role of Chief Executive Officer and Team Principal on social media, just four days after the Sandown 500.

It will be a major shake up after Edwards has been at the team since 2005 when it was known as Ford Performance Racing.

He immediately helped transform the factory team from a winless operation in 2004 and 2005 into a championship contending force.

Tim Edwards has been the face of Tickford for a long time, pictured here in the Ford Performance Racing pits in 2009. Image: Mark Horsburgh/LAT Photographic.

The first signs were there in 2006 when Jason Bright and Mark Winterbottom won the Sandown 500 and after multiple near misses, FPR finally struck gold in 2013.

Winterbottom teamed up with former FPR teammate Steve Richards to hold off Jamie Whincup in a last-lap thriller at Bathurst.

A year later Chaz Mostert and Paul Morris then went from last to first despite a trip to the Griffins Bend barriers to pull off one of the most unlikely Great Race wins ever.

One of Tim Edwards first big wins was the 2006 Sandown 500 when Jason Bright and Mark Winterbottom held off the Kelly brothers. Image: Mark Horsburgh/LAT Photographic

To complete the set, Winterbottom then cruised to a dominant 2015 championship crown, which would have been extremely sweet for Edwards and co after being second or third best in seven of the previous nine seasons.

The biggest highlights of his tenure are the back to back Bathurst 1000 wins in 2013 and 2014 and Mark Winterbottom’s dominant 2015 title.

Mark Winterbottom’s and Steven Richards’ 2013 Bathurst success stands out in Edwards’ FPR history. Image: Mark Horsburgh

Edwards said he is “immensely proud” of the team’s achievements in that time.

“It has been an incredible journey to lead this team and I am immensely proud of what we have accomplished together,” Edwards said.

“I am grateful for the unwavering support of Rod and Sven, our dedicated team, drivers, loyal sponsors and partners, and our passionate fans and members.

Prodrive Racing Australia (now Tickford) team boss Tim Edwards in 2015.

“The decision to step down was not made lightly, but I believe it’s the right time for both my family and the team as we look toward the future.

“There has been speculation about where I will be heading next but my short-term plans are simple: I want to take some time out to explore this great country, enjoy some time with my friends and family, clear my head and focus on what is next.” 

Tickford Racing Co-Owner and Managing Director Rod Nash explained the decision forms part of the strategic restructuring of the business to forge the team’s path into the future, having also announced it will downsize from four to two cars in 2024.

“The Executive Team that Tim is part of has been working on strategic adjustments in the way the business continues to commercialise its opportunities over the past 12 months,” Nash said.

Rod Nash and Tim Edwards have steered the Tickford ship over the last decade. Image: Daniel Kalisz/ LAT Images

“Part of that is welcoming a new era of leadership for the road ahead, all based on the strong foundation that Tickford is all about which is a direct result of Tim’s passion and the strong infrastructure he has put in place throughout his tenure.”

Nash also expressed his appreciation for Edwards’ dedicated leadership.

“Everyone at Tickford extends its heartfelt thanks to Tim and Trudie for their dedication to the team and wish them the very best. Tim leaves behind a lasting legacy that will be remembered by all associated with Tickford Racing,” he said.

“Tim has been one of the driving forces behind Tickford Racing for almost 20 years.

Chaz Mostert gave FPR back to back Bathurst wins with a last lap pass for the lead in 2014.Image: Daniel Kalisz/LAT Photographic

“His contribution to not only the team’s development but to the wider Supercars network cannot be understated. Tim has always played an active role in a number of boards and committees and is well respected in the Paddock.

“Personally, I’ve enjoyed a great working relationship with Tim along with his wife Trudie who is also well known within the racing community.

“Trudie has always been a strong ambassador for the team with her roles in corporate hospitality and the team’s membership program along with her catering skills that the whole team have appreciated immensely.

The two Prodrive FGX Falcons were the class of the field in 2015 which resulted in a breakthrough championship for Mark Winterbottom.Image: Daniel Kalisz/LAT Photographic

To ensure a seamless transition, Edwards will continue in the role until the completion of the 2023 season before a “comprehensive” recruitment process will be undertaken to identify a new CEO to lead the team in 2024 and beyond.

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