Lowndes weighs in on 'old school' Supercars racing rules

Supercars legend Craig Lowndes has praised the relaxation of the racing rules in 2025, insisting drivers should expect retaliation if they get their elbows out.

The first three rounds of the 2025 Repco Supercars Championship have been headlined by combative door-to-door racing, leading to thrilling action.

Sydney kicked off the year with a stunning battle under lights between Cam Waters, Broc Feeney and Will Brown, before drivers got into it in a series of close fights at the Grand Prix.

In New Zealand, there were two panel-bashing fights for the lead, first between Chaz Mostert and Brodie Kostecki, before Matt Payne muscled past Cameron Hill.

The action has earned high praise from the likes of Hall of Famers Mark Skaife and John Bowe, with seven-time Bathurst winner Lowndes joining the chorus.

Writing in his upcoming column for Supercars.com, Lowndes took particular notice of drivers "returning serve" on their rivals, saying it has led to greater fights for track position.

"Where we currently are at the moment, I really like the style of racing," Lowndes writes.

"To be honest, drivers should always look to balance the ledger; if they get run wide at one corner, there's always gonna be somewhat a return of serve. 

"If we can continue the way we are, I think it's great. There's no doubt that the racing now is tougher. It's harder, it’s somewhat old school, you've really gotta fight for your position."

The new standard hasn't been without its questions; Kostecki has been a noted critic of the consistency of certain calls, saying he needs more clarity on what is and isn't required.

Others, meanwhile, expressed concerns that some early-race incidents have gone without penalty, although it must be said that Ryan Wood has twice been penalised for lap 1 incidents.

Lowndes believes drivers have somewhat been empowered to race without fear of penalty, despite Driving Standards Advisor Craig Baird insisting drivers are still subject to the rulebook should they cross the line.

"Drivers have to accept that if you’re gonna give it, you're gonna get it back," Lowndes continues.

"So, we’re seeing some drivers stand up, trying to outsmart the other driver and get into a position where you can have a crack without being afraid of getting a penalty.

"Importantly. the fans are enjoying it. We want to see drivers even up the ledger if they’ve been roughed up, and it’s producing some awesome racing."

Drivers will vie for three wins at this weekend's Snowy River Caravans Tasmania Super 440. Tickets on sale.