Supercars Shake-Up Sparks Fan Backlash as Veteran Commentators Face Downgrade
Supercars is facing a growing wave of criticism following the decision to remove longtime commentators Neil Crompton and Mark Skaife from their lead roles, a move described by one former executive as potentially “putting themselves out of business.” The planned overhaul of the broadcast team, intended to attract a wider audience, has ignited a firestorm of protest from dedicated fans and industry figures alike.
A petition supporting 65-year-old Crompton has already garnered over 23,000 signatures, demonstrating the deep connection fans have with the duo who have been the “voices of the sport” for more than 15 years. Crompton has reportedly been offered a limited role involving just two events, while Skaife is believed to be facing a similar reduction in responsibilities.
The decision has drawn particularly sharp criticism from Tony Cochrane, who spearheaded the immense success of Aussie V8 racing during his tenure from 1996 to 2012. cochrane expressed his dismay in a statement to Speedcafe, questioning the logic behind sidelining the established commentary team.
“I’m more than perplexed. Why you would get rid of the two leading commentary voices for the last 15 to 20 years in one hit, I have no idea,” Cochrane stated. He argued for a more gradual transition,suggesting a phased approach that would allow fans to adjust to the changes. “you might do one in the near future and one in a year or two down the track, so you take the fans with you as you exit what have been the voices of V8 Supercars now for an awfully long time.”
Cochrane characterized the offer of a limited cameo role as “embarrassing” for both commentators,emphasizing their pride and dedication to the sport. “I don’t see either of them just bending over and being a part-time commentator in what has been a part of their lives and careers for so long,” he said.
The controversy extends beyond the commentators’ reduced roles. A potential conflict of interest involving Crompton’s work with Toyota – he gave the Supra its first laps at Bathurst last October – has been suggested as a justification for the changes. However, Cochrane vehemently dismissed this notion as “ridiculous” and “rank stupidity,” recalling how his previous administration actively celebrated similar contributions.
Supercars maintains that the broadcast rejuvenation is driven by research indicating declining satisfaction among viewers outside of the core fanbase. The overhaul is expected to encompass all aspects of the broadcast, including a change in production partner. While acknowledging the need for improvement in the TV product, Cochrane questioned the prioritization of the commentary team. “I guess if I had a top 10 list of things I wanted to fix up, I’m not sure these two commentators would be on the top of my list.”
Cochrane, who left Supercars in 2012 following a buyout by Archer Capital, currently serves on the independent infrastructure and co-ordination board for the 2032 Brisbane Olympic Games. He emphasized the notable contribution both crompton and Skaife have made to the sport, irrespective of personal opinions. “Both of those guys, love them or hate them, have given an enormous contribution to the sport.”
The situation underscores a growing tension between Supercars’ desire to mod
Why did this happen? Supercars decided to overhaul its broadcast team, including
