FridayOL

Get ready for a shake-up at Mount Panorama! A radical proposal to overhaul the start of the iconic Bathurst 1000 is under consideration by the Supercars Commission, potentially coming into effect for this year's race in October. The most significant change? The controversial rule introduced in 2024 requiring primary drivers to always start endurance races is on the chopping block.

According to sources within Supercars, the governing body is seriously evaluating the move, aiming to inject more excitement and strategic depth into the race's opening stages. This change, if implemented, would allow teams greater flexibility in selecting their starting drivers, potentially opening doors for co-drivers to launch from the front and shake up the established order.

Why the Change? Understanding the Controversy

The 2024 rule, designed to ensure primary drivers gained valuable experience in race starts, quickly drew criticism. Many argued it stifled team strategy, limited co-driver opportunities, and ultimately, didn't significantly improve the primary driver's skills. Teams felt forced to use their primary drivers even when a co-driver might be better suited for a specific qualifying or starting situation, such as navigating tricky conditions or executing a particular race strategy.

“It just didn’t feel right,” said one team manager, speaking anonymously. “We had situations where our co-driver was significantly faster in qualifying, but we were forced to have the primary driver start. It removed a valuable strategic tool.”

What Could the New System Look Like?

While the specifics are still being finalized, the likely scenario is a return to a system where teams can choose which driver starts the race, subject to certain regulations. This could involve restrictions on how many races a co-driver can start or requirements for the primary driver to complete a minimum number of laps during the endurance event. The Commission is expected to weigh these factors carefully to ensure fairness and competitive balance.

Impact on the Race

The potential impact on the race itself is considerable. Allowing co-drivers to start could lead to more unpredictable results, particularly in the early stages. Teams will need to carefully consider driver strengths, weather conditions, and tyre strategy when making their starting driver selection. We could also see a greater emphasis on qualifying performance, as a strong qualifying position for a co-driver could provide a significant advantage.

The Commission's Decision

The Supercars Commission is expected to deliberate on the proposal in the coming weeks. The decision will likely be influenced by feedback from teams, drivers, and fans. The move signals a willingness within Supercars to adapt and evolve the sport, ensuring the Bathurst 1000 remains a thrilling and strategically complex event for years to come. Stay tuned to Speedcafe for updates as this story develops!

The Bathurst 1000 is more than just a race; it's an Australian institution. These changes have the potential to reshape the landscape of endurance racing in Australia, and fans are eagerly awaiting the Commission's verdict.