Motorsport CEO says he’s ‘very pleased’ to have Aaron Hickmann’s company as sponsor for Adelaide 500 races

After raids on the offices of Adelaide 500 sponsor Vailo, the boss of the SA Motorsport Board has weighed in on businessman Aaron Hickmann providing future financial support.

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Ahead of the Adelaide 500 next week, Motorsport CEO Mark Warren said he was pleased to have the Vailo founder, millionaire businessman Aaron Hickmann, providing financial support to the local street race, despite federal agencies raiding the offices of the company’s founder.

“We’re very pleased to have Vailo as a sponsor,” Mr Warren said on Friday.

Mr Warren also said they were open to discussions around extending Mr Hickmann’s contract after the completion of the current term.

“At this stage, this is the third year and he’s got a two year option to extend the contract,” he told the media. “So we’ll certainly be having those conversations.”

South Australian Motorsport Board (SAMSB) chief executive Officer Mark Warren at the launch of the VAILO Adelaide 500 celebrating 25 years. Picture: NCA NewsWire/Brenton Edwards

And although Mr Warren said he couldn’t comment on whether the Vailo founder has any outstanding debts to the upcoming event – he assured fans that the event is “on track to meet their obligations” as part of their sponsorship deal.

However, it is unclear if Mr Hickmann will be attending the races in Adelaide.

Vailo CEO and founder Aaron Hickmann at his offices and factory at Kent Town. Picture Mark Brake

It comes after The Advertiser recently revealed that Mr Hickmann’s offices in South Australia and Queensland were raided by the Australian Taxation Office and the Australian Federal Police on Wednesday afternoon.

It is unclear why the offices were targeted, or if any items were seized, and Mr Hickmann did not respond to a request for comment on the raids.

However, his Adelaide lawyer Greg Griffin conceded on Wednesday night that “there is a matter with the ATO” but “it is not related to Vailo”.

“Aaron Hickmann has been compliant,” Mr Griffin said.

Mr Hickman has not been charged with any offences.