DJR parts ways with Team Manager Croke

There has been senior change at the Shell V-Power Racing Team ahead of Darwin, with long-time Team Manager Ben Croke departing the team.

Croke has been with Dick Johnson Racing since joining as Crew Chief in 2016, when the Ford squad ran under the DJR Team Penske banner.

Previously of Perkins Engineering and Stone Brothers Racing, Croke was later promoted to Team Manager at the Stapylton squad in 2017.

In his stint with the team, Croke oversaw three drivers’ championships, three teams’ championships and a Bathurst 1000 victory, and also sat on the Supercars Commission. As Team Manager, Croke also led the team to two PIRTEK Pit Stop Challenge victories.

Croke later became Team Principal, succeeding Dr Ryan Story in 2021 in a major reshuffle at the team. He remained Team Principal through the evolution into the Gen3 era.

Story returned to the Team Principal role in 2024, with Croke shifting back to Team Manager duties.

After the highs of the 2017-20 period, the team has won 11 races since 2021, with Will Davison and Anton De Pasquale currently seventh and eighth in the 2024 standings.

In a team statement, DJR said Josh Silcock and Mikey Flynn "will undertake all internal and at track operational, administration and technical requirements."

Croke's departure comes six months after Ludo Lacroix departed the team and later joined PremiAir Nulon Racing.

"The Shell V-Power Racing Team today announces the departure of Team Manager, Ben Croke," a DJR statement reads.

"We thank Ben for his invaluable contributions and leadership throughout his tenure. He leaves behind a legacy of success, excellence, care and camaraderie.

"We wish him well for the future. Josh Silcock and Mikey Flynn will undertake all internal and at track operational, administration and technical requirements."

The betr Darwin Triple Crown will be held on June 14-16. Tickets for the event are on sale now. International viewers can follow all the action on Superview.