Supercars fans are furious after legendary commentator Neil Crompton confirmed he would not be on the mics – at least full-time – in 2026.
Speculation has been rife for months last year’s season-ender in Adelaide would be Crompton’s last as a full-time commentator, as Supercars management looked to inject fresh talent into the role.
While neither party had publicly commented, Crompton on Tuesday evening issued a statement confirming he would not be in the booth when the season starts at Eastern Creek in western Sydney next month.
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“Late last year Supercars advised me I will not be calling in the broadcast any longer,” he said.
“Although I am naturally disappointed, I totally respect the right of the senior management to make that decision.
Veteran Supercars commentator Neil Crompton. Getty
“I am not retiring. I love working, I love the sport of Supercars and intend to continue in some capacity in the sport for a long time to come.”
When the rumours began last year, a fan opened a change.org petition to keep Crompton in the role. The same fan also made one when much-loved technical guru Mark Larkham was axed for the 2021 season, which led Supercars to backflip on the decision.
Crompton has been more or less a constant voice in the commentary box since his retirement from driving at the end of 2002.
Even before then, Crompton had been a regular face on motorsport coverage on both Seven and Ten for decades when he wasn’t in a car.
Crompton said he had been offered a limited role for two events in the season – possibly The Bend 500 and Bathurst 1000 endurance races – but was undecided.
“Part time work for two of 14 events, in a limited capacity, is a lot to digest. So right now, I am undecided,” he said.
“Big picture, nothing has changed. I’ve spent a lifetime loving Supercars, the competition, the people, the cars and I’m especially grateful for the endless passion shown by you, our fans, otherwise we’ve got nothing.”
Crompton in his driving days, pictured here at the 2001 Queensland 500 where he drove with Craig Lowndes. Getty
Supercars has undergone a behind-the-scenes shake-up in the off season. The category has switched production partners from Gravity Media to NEP, which has required a major upheaval.
It’s also believed returning chief executive James Warburton was keen for younger voices in the booth.
Crompton played a pivotal role in bringing Toyota and the Supra model into the sport. The Sydney season-opener marks its debut.
“I’m positive about the future of the sport. The new three-way battle between GM, Ford and now Toyota will be fantastic for everyone,” he said.
Having battled prostate cancer in 2021, Crompton also assured fans his health was not the cause.
“Please know I am still vertical, healthy, fit and well (thanks for caring) and busy looking for new professional opportunities and remaining productive.
“Thanks again – your support means a lot.”
The future of his co-commentator Mark Skaife remains unclear, although he too is not expected to return.
Garth Tander, who won last year’s Bathurst 1000 with Kai Allen before retiring from driving altogether, is expected to play a significant role in the revamped commentary team, as will fellow former champions James Courtney and Mark Winterbottom.
Supercars has been contacted for comment.