Rogers “obligated” to fight Volvo for car custody

In his post-Sandown 500 website wrap, Rogers reiterated that the GRM squad is committed to running its S60s in 2017 – despite Polestar and Cyan calling for the cars and engines to be returned to Sweden when Volvo withdraws as a manufacturer at the end of this season.

The veteran team owner added that he is not a “litigious person”, but that he now has no other option but to go ahead with the now much publicised legal action.

“Without going into too much detail our commitment to race Volvos in 2017 has not changed,” wrote Rogers.

“Our relationship with the Volvo dealers is fantastic and from the feedback I receive what we do certainly helps them to sell cars.

“I am by no means a litigious person and I have attempted to engage Volvo and resolve this matter in a sensible way. I am obligated to consider my long standing business and 36 employees and their families who rely on me.

“Unfortunately this has now escalated to a level where the matter is likely to reach the courts.”

Relief after Golding crash

Rogers also wrote of his relief after seeing James Golding – who he’s nicknamed ‘Bieber’ – emerge from the wrecked #34 car uninjured on Sunday afternoon.

Golding, making his debut in the main series, survived a frightening high-speed, head-on crash at Turn 6 on the first lap of the Sandown 500.

“In these circumstances your immediate thought if for the wellbeing of your driver and there was incredible relief throughout the garage when ‘Bieber’ radioed in, saying he was okay,” added Rogers.

“‘Bieber’ was taken to the medical centre where the medicos and volunteers do a tremendous job, with very little acknowledgement. Thank you!”