Disappointment felt as Tony Quinn fails to buy Taupo Motorsport Park

Highlands Motorsport Park Chief Operating Officer Josie Spillane says the Keltic Motorsport group were left ‘disappointed’ about yesterday’s failed bid to buy Taupo Motorsport Park.

TMP shareholders voted against a 100 per cent takeover offer from Keltic Motorsport’s owner Tony Quinn at the circuit’s AGM yesterday.

Quinn already owns Highlands Motorsport Park in the South Island and Hampton Downs in north Waikato.

The Scottish-born business magnate had plans to revamp the Taupo circuit.

His plans included a new go-kart facility, a membership programme, and the promotion of two annual marquee events.

One of these events was the Historic Grand Prix, with Quinn discussing with the Supercars Championship about hosting a round of the series in Taupo.

Spillane was working closely with Quinn concerning the takeover, which included several visits to TMP over the past few months.

“We are very disappointed by this outcome,” Spillane said.

“As many of you will know, we have spent many months understanding the Taupo landscape, the facilities and the community, including discussions with key stakeholders.

“We had exciting plans for the future of the park within our group and the value it would have had to our members and broader customer base.”

Spillane did not mention whether Keltic Motorsport has a plan B regarding the takeover of TMP.

“For the time being, it’s over. We are unsure as to what the future holds for Taupo Motorsport Park, but we wish them all the best.”

Interestingly, Spillane did float that she has held talks with the Supercars Championship concerning a potential round next year at Hampton Downs or Highlands.

Highlands will celebrate its tenth birthday in 2023, with big plans in the pipeline to mark the occasion.