Davison confirmed as Bathurst reserve co-driver

The Shell V-Power Racing Team has confirmed Alex Davison will step in for the Repco Bathurst 1000 in October if co-driver Scott McLaughlin is unable to travel to Australia.

McLaughlin, who is currently competing in the IndyCar Series in America, was confirmed in the Ford team's driving line-up late last year.

WATCH: MCLAUGHLIN TO USE BATHURST AS INDYCAR SECRET WEAPON

However, McLaughlin's appearance depends on not being required to complete a fortnight of hotel quarantine once in Australia, given the IndyCar finale takes place on September 27, less than two weeks ahead of the Bathurst 1000 on October 7-10.

The Shell Ford squad confirmed the contingency plan on Tuesday, announcing Tony D’Alberto and McLaughlin still remain the first options for co-drivers, with Davison on standby for the latter.

"With the evolving situation around the coronavirus pandemic, and Scott being US-based with his INDYCAR program, it made sense to us to have a reserve driver locked in," Chairman and CEO Ryan Story said.

"Alex Davison is just that for us, and he'll cut some laps in our Shell V-Power Racing Team Mustangs whenever we test or have rides days going forward. He's a great addition to our team and a friendly face having last been part of DJR back in 2012."

WATCH: HIGHLIGHTS OF 2020 BATHURST 1000

The older brother of full-time driver Will, Davison completed a full-time campaign with Team Sydney last season and had three Bathurst 1000 starts with Dick Johnson Racing in 2006, 2007 and 2012.

The 41-year-old netted top 10 finishes in all three outings at Mount Panorama with the Queensland-based team, and has made 16 starts in the Great Race.

“It’s great to be involved with the team again and to have the opportunity to drive the Shell V-Power Racing Team Mustangs in testing and at ride days," he said.

"Obviously the ever-changing COVID situation is making planning difficult, so if Scott can’t make it out here from the US for the Bathurst 1000, and I’m ready to step in should I get the call-up."

The Repco Supercars Championship field will return to the Northern Territory for the Merlin Darwin Triple Crown across June 18-20. Tickets are available here.

The event will be broadcast live on Foxtel and will be streamed on Kayo, and will be broadcast live and free on Seven.