FridayOL

The Tasmanian Supercars weekend delivered a nail-biting finale, leaving Red Bull Ampol Racing's Broc Feeney and Jamie Whincup with markedly different emotions despite narrowly missing a clean sweep. While Feeney wrestled with frustration after a near victory snatched away, Whincup offered a more measured perspective on the intense racing action.

Race 13 of the 2025 Supercars Championship was a masterclass in wheel-to-wheel combat, with Matt Payne showcasing incredible resilience as he defended against a relentless Feeney. The young gun pushed Payne to the absolute limit in the closing laps, creating a spectacle that had fans on the edge of their seats. Ultimately, Payne’s defensive prowess proved too much, denying Feeney the win and the chance to secure a dominant weekend result.

“It’s frustrating, no doubt,” Feeney admitted post-race. “We had the pace all weekend, and we were right there at the end. Matt drove well, he defended hard, and credit to him. But we just couldn’t quite get through. It’s a tough one to swallow, but we’ll learn from it and come back stronger.” The disappointment was palpable, a testament to the high standards Feeney has set for himself and the team.

However, veteran driver and team manager Jamie Whincup offered a contrasting viewpoint. While acknowledging the team's ambition and Feeney's performance, Whincup emphasized the competitive nature of Supercars racing and the importance of respecting the efforts of rivals.

“These races are always going to be tight, and Matt drove a brilliant race,” Whincup stated. “Brocie pushed him to the limit, and that’s what we want to see. It’s fantastic racing for the fans, and it shows the depth of talent in this championship. We’ll analyse the race, see where we can improve, but ultimately, we're happy with the overall performance of the car and the team.”

The weekend in Tasmania highlighted the evolving dynamics within the Red Bull Ampol Racing team. Feeney’s aggressive pursuit of victory demonstrates his unwavering determination, while Whincup’s experience and strategic guidance continue to shape the team’s approach. The close finish served as a reminder that in Supercars, every race is a battle, and victory is never guaranteed.

Looking ahead, the championship battle promises to intensify as the series moves to the next venue. The team will undoubtedly be dissecting the Tasmanian race, searching for those crucial marginal gains that could make the difference between victory and heartbreak. One thing is certain: the rivalry between Feeney, Payne, and the other leading contenders will continue to provide thrilling racing action for fans across Australia.