Supercars legend Neil Crompton has been dropped as a commentator after 24 years, with the former driver admitting he has been left “disappointed” by the decision.
Crompton, 65, was a driver on the circuit between 1987 and 2002 before transitioning into the world of broadcasting as a commentator for the Supercars brand.
Since 2001, Crompton has been a key part of the Supercars coverage across Channel 10, Seven and Fox.
The beloved presenter revealed he would not be retiring from commentating, but had been told late last year that he no longer had a full-time position.
“I would like to offer my sincere thanks to all of the fans for their amazing support. I am truly humbled, thank you so much,” Crompton said in a statement.
“To clarify answers to some of the questions being raised. I am not retiring. I love working, I love the sport of Supercars and intend to continue in some capacity for a long time to come.
“Late last year, Supercars advised me I will not be calling in the broadcast any longer.”
The veteran commentator admitted he had been “disappointed” by the decision, but respected his former bosses for making the call.
“Although I am naturally disappointed, I totally respect the right of senior management to make that decision,” he continued.
“There is the possibility of participating in a reduced role in the broadcast for two events later in the year.
“Part-time work for two of 14 events, in a limited capacity, is a lot to digest. So right now, l am undecided.”
Crompton finished his statement by adding that he is looking at the “big picture” and “nothing has changed”, while he remains “positive about the future of the sport”.
It’s understood Supercars is looking for younger stars to fill the commentary team as Supercars CEO James Warburton masterminds a shake-up of the broadcast output.
The recently retired Garth Tander, James Courtney and Mark Winterbottom are all reportedly set to join the Supercars broadcasting outfit.
Crompton’s former Channel 10 colleague Leigh Diffey voiced his support for the commentator as he said Australian motorsport will be “worse off” without his input.
“This is sad. Nothing lasts forever but Crompo was at the top of his game,” Diffey wrote on X.
“Neil’s been like a big brother to me and he’s been involved, as a mentor, with every career move I’ve ever made.
“Aussie motorsport fans will be worse off. His dedication to the sport and his craft is top shelf.”
Supercars fans have been left devastated by the news and a petition to keep Crompton on the TV has attracted over 17,000 signatures.
