John Bowe: 2015 report card

Firstly, I want to say how much respect I have for the V8 Supercars drivers and the excellent job they do in the world’s toughest motorsport category. 

I’m respectful of the drivers who are operating at a very high level, purely because they deserve the respect. 

It’s elite level racing and one second often covers the field in qualy at most circuits certainly proves that. I’m not one to criticise, I prefer to offer an opinion.

Here’s my first of three reviews, assessing each drivers’ performance throughout the 2015 season. 

25 Ash Walsh 

Ash has been a bit under the radar to be honest, apart from the recent pink Wendy's livery on his car. His replacement by Dean Canto and then Alex Davison proved he’s done a pretty good job in his rookie year. I hope he lands a spot, he deserves to be there! He probably needs to work on his public persona a bit and grow more fans – which is easier said than done.

24 Andre Heimgartner 

I was very impressed by his early season form for a rookie. He has lots of talent/ability I reckon, getting passed over because of money is just one of the unsavoury things that happens today in modern motorsport - sadly. He has a genuine future, I reckon. Again, he needs to learn the fan business, engage the fans more is my advice.

23 David Wall 

He is a buddy of mine, so it's difficult for me not to be biased. David Wall is a fine race driver; his results this year have not always been of his own doing. Unfortunately he has not got a full time gig for 2016 but he will make a great co-driver in the endure races. Porsche Carrera Cup will be the better for his presence.

22 Nick Percat 

He is back this far because of his infection and missing the final races. A definite champion in the future, I reckon, but he needs to land in the right place at the right time. The LDM team massively lifted their game in 2015, I think they will continue that next year and Nick will go with it, you see a drivers performance is usually a direct measure of how his team is going. 

21 Tim Blanchard

I have always thought Tim had more ability than his results have shown in recent times. I reckon the family structure at BJR will suit him better. They are a very close-knit group – I’m sure he will grow. Look for better results in season 2016.

20 Dale Wood 

Because of his random pace, Dale is quite hard to judge. At times his form is startling, at other times it's far from it – he’s been somewhat up and down and would have hoped for better results. I honestly think the Nissan drive will bring out the best in Dale in 2016. I believe the Nissan is now a potential winner in the right hands.

19 Scott Pye 

I can't believe Scotty Pye has finished so far down the list! He is a genuine talent! Once again it shows how tough it is in V8 Supercars. Don't think for a minute high priced recruit Fabian Coulthard will dust Scotty. He’s still climbing and DJR/Team Penske is the place to be in my opinion in the coming seasons.

18 James Moffat 

He is a very gritty driver, a style I like. He’s tough and very reminiscent of his famous dad. His move to Wilson Security GRM will be the decider/making of him I reckon. His new teammate is a potential Champion. Moff will sink or swim next year, I reckon he’ll swim, just quietly! I think the environment at GRM will suit his style and manner better.

17 Todd Kelly 

I’m in awe of anyone who can help run an organisation the size/scale of Kelly Racing and still race at such a high level. Should Todd Kelly retire? The answer from me is NO! On his day he is capable of a podium place. Don’t underestimate how tough a gig Todd Kelly has though.

16 Jason Bright 

Truly a naturally gifted driver with talent in spades. His talent deserves a far better result than being back this far. One has to ask the question - why? Is he still hungry enough or is he distracted by his business interests? I don't know the answer to that one but I do know how much ability Brighty has. Let’s hope his results improve in 2016 for both he and BJR.

Stay tuned for JB’s next report card on v8supercars.com.au.