June 01, 2012
Published on tags: Superleague
On a bright Friday morning in South Wales, as we head to the Red 5 Racing HQ in Aberdare, Owner and Team Manager Gavin Thomas takes to the stage to address the waiting Media for what he described as some "regrettable news to divulge."


He continued: "With the loss of form that has seen him lose confidence and after long discussions with the driver, we have regrettably agreed to terminate Ben Morgans contract with Red 5 Racing this morning, effective immediately."


"Ben felt that he wasn't doing himself or the team any favours by continuing, so he informed me this morning that he would be leaving Red 5 Racing and the GPVWC. We are truly grateful for Ben's contribution to the Red 5 cause, he was a shining light in our takeover of Computrac Motorsports. Unfortunately, this season has seen his form dip and despite being given time to reinvigorate himself, Ben has taken the decision that we all hoped would not happen."

Thomas then asked if there were any questions.

Q) What does this mean for you as a team and who will be the front runner for the vacant driving position?


A) Well, we have to re-think our strategy in terms of personnel. Geoff Meade is the most likely candidate, however we have been notified by William Tringas that he will be unavailable for the next 3 months due to travel commitments.which means we could possibly be on the lookout for 2 drivers.


Q) Are you now going to continue yourself as a driver?


A) It's really difficult to say at this moment in time. I still have a contract as a driver, but will not hesitate to take myself out of the car if I don't improve soon.


Q) There are rumours that SimInk owner and millionaire Jamez Shepherd has been in contact about buying the Red 5 Racing Superleague team - can you confirm the outcome of that bid?


A) I can confirm that James has contacted me about the state of the team, and asked about taking it over from me; however, I will not quit, that is not the Red 5 ethos and it is not in my nature. We will be continue as Red 5 Racing, we will make inroads into the points table soon and we WILL be a force within the Superleague!"


With those words, Thomas left the assembled press. Is the crisis going to worsen for the Welsh team? Will Thomas find the happy medium in his driver selection? Only the results will matter come the end of the season.