How new Richards Award differs from Sheene Medal

The Jim Richards Award and Barry Sheene Medal will form two of the most prestigious accolades awarded at the Supercars Gala Awards night.

The Jim Richards Award is named in honour of seven-time Bathurst 1000 winner 'Gentleman Jim' Richards, who was regarded among the most respected drivers on and off the track.

The 2024 Gala Awards will see the Jim Richards Award presented to a driver for the first time, 21 years after after very first Barry Sheene Medal was awarded.

So, what is the Jim Richards Award, and how do you win?

The Jim Richards Award will be presented to the 'best and fairest' driver across the season, with the winning driver recognised for their on-track conduct.

Drivers are awarded votes for their on-track performance, professionalism, and respectability in the field of play.

Similar to the AFL's Brownlow Medal, votes are cast by select members of Supercars or Motorsport Australia officials on a race-by-race basis.

The voters will allocate three, two, and one points to drivers following each race of the season.

Votes tallied at the end of the season will determine the winner of the Jim Richards Award, which will be presented at the Supercars Gala Awards night.

How does the Richards Award differ to the Barry Sheene Medal?

Named after the late motorcycling great and popular motorsport broadcaster, the Barry Sheene Medal was first awarded in 2003.

The Barry Sheene Medal is presented to the driver adjudged to have displayed "outstanding leadership, media interaction, character, personality, fan appeal and sportsmanship throughout the season."

Where the Jim Richards Award is voted on by officials, the Barry Sheene Medal is voted on by Supercars accredited media personnel.

And, where the Jim Richards Award specifically focuses on on-track conduct, the Barry Sheene Medal recognises off-track candour, distinctively focusing on drivers' character and off-track contributions to the sport.

Barry Sheene Medal winners