Davison's high praise for 'heart and soul' Story
01 Jan 2023
Ryan Story’s legacy at Dick Johnson Racing isn't lost on Will Davison ahead of a big year of change for the team.
The Shell V-Power Racing Team enters 2023 having acquired new ownership and leadership.
The Ralph family bought a majority stake in DJR under the Melbourne Aces banner.
DJR announces new ownership
DJR recruits former AFL coach as CEO
It was later announced that former AFL coach David Noble had been appointed DJR's new CEO.
With Noble joining the team, long-time boss Story will step down from day-to-day running of the business.
Story was named a Member of the Order of Australia in 2022, and will remain DJR's Non-Executive Chairman.
He led the team between 2013 and 2020, and most recently served as Executive Chairman of DJR.
Under Story, the team won 57 races, three drivers' championships and three teams’ championships.
He also led DJR to become the first carbon neutral professional motor racing team in Australia.
Story oversaw the team's resurgence
Critically for Davison, Story helped bring the former DJR driver back to the team.
While Story will take a backward step in 2023, Davison knows his passion won’t subside.
“Ryan’s heart and soul of the team,” Davison told Supercars’ Cool Down Lap podcast.
“I’m sure we’ll still have him around, engaged and in touch, as he was this year.
“He was a big part of this whole process going forwards.
“I don’t think anything will change on that front, which is exciting.
“He implemented these things in place for a reason — it’s not that he wants to step away, he loves it.
“He loves this team — I’m very grateful for Ryan and what he did for me.
“We love him, and hopefully see him some more."
Story helped bring the Ralph family to DJR
Davison finished fifth behind teammate Anton De Pasquale in the 2022 standings.
The team achieved four wins in 2022 — down from six in 2021 — but proved a constant at the front.
Most importantly, both drivers won, Davison winning races for the first time in six years.
With sharp sporting mind Noble on board, Davison is excited for the new season given the ongoing anticipation of Gen3.
"Definitely exciting times,” 22-time race winner Davison said.
"There have been some big changes in the team, it’s all really positive.
“I can’t wait to get back into work and see these new cars come to life.
“David started at the team, he’s chomping at the bit to get started in the office.
“There’s a lot of stuff happening."
The 2023 Repco Supercars Championship will commence in Newcastle on March 10-12.
Tickets are on sale on Supercars.com and Ticketek.com.
