The start of the 2024 Bathurst 1000. Image: Supplied
Speedcafe understands Supercars is proposing to scrap a controversial rule introduced in 2024 that stipulates primary drivers must take the start at endurance events.
That rule was implemented to ensure the sport’s biggest race begins with its star drivers in the cars but contributed to a lacklustre 1000km grind with little strategic variation.
Under the proposal hatched by Supercars for The Bend 500 and Bathurst 1000, the top 10 cars would have to start the race with whichever driver took part in the Saturday qualifying Shootout.
The remainder of the field from 11th on the grid backwards would be free to choose their starting driver.
When given the choice, the top teams most often select their co-drivers to start the race due to the benefits of getting the part-timer’s minimum laps out of way as early as possible.
The new system would effectively make the Shootout runners have to decide between the benefits of going all-out for pole or the ability to start their co-driver.
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Supercars is believed to have canvassed team feedback on the idea, but it is yet to be formally debated at Commission level.
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The category, though, feels the proposal would strike a balance between the desire to have star drivers at the front of the grid and the need for strategic variation through the field.
It’s thought to be the latest idea put forward by head of motorsport, Tim Edwards, who was the architect behind the new-for-2025 Supercars Finals Series.
Edwards has already implemented a reduction in the fuel tank size and an increase in the minimum co-driver laps for The Bend and Bathurst in a bid to spice-up the races.
