Nick Percat. Image: Mark Horsburgh
Nick Percat celebrated his 33rd birthday last week, but with that came the realization that his time to compete for the Supercars title has finally come.
The Adelaide-born Gold Coast driver is set to take a groundbreaking move next season after he and Brad Jones Racing confirmed they will split in late 2021.
Where Percat will land in 2022 is not yet known, although Walkinshaw Andretti United are considered the top contender.
This means that the 2011 Bathurst 1000 winner could stand alongside Chaz Mostert, who himself only spent a short time with the Clayton-based organization.
The time has come for Percat to change as he is determined to win the championship next year.
“I haven’t had to put together a championship since Super2 or Porsche” [Carrera Cup] or the days of Formula Ford, ”Percat told Speedcafe.com.
“It’s going to be cool, week after week, every session, every round against someone who pushes it and pushes me.
“It’s all about this; a bit of self-growth and try to take the next step.
“That’s the dream when you grow up to be in the right place to win the championship,” he added.
“It’s no different from karting, Formula Ford and all that. You always find yourself where you think it’s the best place.
“That was probably the lightbulb moment for me. My time is running out if I want a chance of winning a championship. I’m getting old
“The timing of all of this was in my favor, so I’m looking forward to what’s next.”
Percat has spent most of five years with Brad Jones Racing, his best season to date in the 2020 coronavirus reduction campaign, where he won twice and finished seventh overall.
When asked what Percat expects from his move, the four-time race winner said he wants to keep evolving.
“It has always been very important to me to continue growing and learning,” he said.
“That’s why I still do karting because I get all the tips from all the 15 year olds who kick my ass on Todd Road, or I go to Paul Morris or do coaching stuff because there is a lot to learn.
“I’m looking to see who will be on the other side of the garage from me and in the engineering group that can help me grow back and hopefully take another step on the driver’s side to get a little bit better.
“That’s one thing I’ve probably missed over the past few years because I’ve had more data and stuff that kind of bounces off.
“It was great to be the leading driver, but you need someone by your side who can push you hard. I’m looking for that. “
While Percat wouldn’t know where he’ll end up, he said last week’s news would allow him to get serious about putting off a deal for 2022.
Tickford Racing is another team that Percat is reportedly affiliated with, although the previously announced Thomas Randle is expected to be joined by at least incumbents Cameron Waters and James Courtney.
One seat currently occupied by Jack Le Brocq is not taken into account. Although Bryce Fullwood Walkinshaw is believed to be leaving Andretti United for Tickford Racing.
“Now that everything is as it is, I can get on with things and decide what is likely best for my future and where I want to be,” said Percat.
“Of course there are probably two places it will be, and it weighs the two options, now I have some time up my sleeve.
“I had a lot of weight on my shoulders and many sleepless nights where I couldn’t tell anyone, so it’s nice to have it out there and move on to the next phase.”
