Jason Richards dies at 35: A tribute from Holden

Holden is mourning the loss of one of its favourite sons, Jason Richards who passed away peacefully in his home at 8pm last night.

Jason was more than just a Champion V8 Supercar driver representing Holden over his distinguished V8 Supercar career, he was a true friend.

Holden Sponsorship Manager, Simon McNamara said Jason’s passion for life was genuine and infectious, while his love for his job, family and friends indisputable.

“Words cannot describe just how deeply we are saddened by this loss,” Mr McNamara said.

“On behalf of all of Holden’s management and employees, I would like to extend our deepest sympathies to his wife Charlotte and their daughters Sienna and Olivia, and Jason’s entire family.  He will be genuinely missed.”

A three-time New Zealand Touring Car Champion, Richards made his V8 Supercar debut at Bathurst in 2000, driving a Commodore for Team Kiwi.  He drove Holdens his entire V8 Supercar career, for Team Kiwi, Team Dynamik, Tasman Motorsport and Brad Jones Racing.

He finished on the podium at Bathurst three times, in 2005 with Jamie Whincup, 2008 with Greg Murphy and 2009 with Cameron McConville.  He also finished on the podium three times in the traditional 500km warm-up race for Bathurst, at Sandown in 2003 and ’05, and at Phillip Island last year.

Jason was just 35 years old.

Written by Alan Zurvas

Alan Zurvas is the founder and editor of Gay Car Boys, Australia's leading LGBTQI+ automotive publication. Before launching GCB in 2008, Alan's automotive writing was published in SameSame.com.au and the Star Observer. With over 16 years of hands-on car reviewing experience, Alan brings an honest, irreverent voice to every review — championing value and innovation over brand loyalty.