One of the most iconic names in Australian motoring could rejoin the automotive industry at a time where manufacturers are carving their own niche.
The Brabham family, whose patriarch Jack won three Formula 1 championships – including one in a car which bore his own name – are looking to Australia to once again become a key player in local motorsport.
While you may know Brabham as the name affixed to the track-only BT62 supercar, the family – now led by son David – split from the vehicle’s Adelaide-based manufacturer Fusion Holdings earlier this year, taking with them the rights to use the family title.
David, who entered 30 Formula 1 races and won the 24 Hours of Le Mans outright, has previously confirmed he was involved in negotiations to allow a new partner to trade on the Brabham name, after losing faith in the BT62 project.
David Brabham in the Brabham BT19
In a media statement confirming his entry in the upcoming GT Festival at Phillip Island, Mr Brabham said the focus is now on motorsport as the focus of the brand’s revival.
“Australian motorsport continues to grow and we believe it’s time for Brabham to return to its roots and establish a motorsport presence in the country,” said Mr Brabham.
“How this looks is still being discussed and while I’m in town I will be assessing our options and catching up with leading teams, professionals and influencers in the Australian motorsport landscape.”
Speaking to CarExpert’s Paul Gover earlier this year, David – who reclaimed the rights to the Brabham family name following a long and costly legal battle prior to the BT62 – said he’d already spoken with some businesses keen to be a part of the name’s future.
“You know, anything can happen in the future. Since we announced the ending of the (BT62) relationship, and put it out there, we’ve been approached by a few people . . . that are interested in what’s next.
“So we’re just working out what ’next’ is.
“Motor racing is part of our (Brabham) DNA.
“We have a plan, we are now talking to people who have shown an interest in the next chapter of Brabham.”
Fusion Capital, the maker of the BT62 supercar, hasn’t made further announcements since confirming its split from the Brabham family earlier this year.
MORE: What’s next for Brabham after death of BT62 supercar?
MORE: What’s next for Australian supercar maker Brabham?
