Kostecki, Randle issue updates after withdrawals

Brodie Kostecki and Thomas Randle have issues updates after they withdrew from Sunday’s betr Darwin Triple Crown finale.

The Ford drivers were replaced by Todd Hazelwood and Mark Winterbottom respectively following separate issues in Saturday’s race.

Kostecki, who has been battling a virus, was taken to the on-site medical centre after finishing third on Saturday. Randle, meanwhile suffered a cool suit failure on the warm up lap, and was also taken to the medical centre.

The Shell V-Power Racing Team opted to put Hazelwood in the car for Sunday’s action, and he duly qualified 13th. Randle qualified 15th, but after further checks, was replaced by Winterbottom for the race.

Both drivers thanked Supercars Medical Delegate Dr Carl Le, along with their respective teams and physios Paul Haines and Brad Sampson.

“Disappointed to be missing the rest of the weekend in Darwin after not feeling 100% this morning,” Kostecki wrote.

"It was a difficult decision, but the right one and I’m following doctor’s orders. Thanks Dr Carl Le and the medical team and everyone at Shell V-Power Racing Team for taking care of me.

"Todd Hazelwood will do a great job this afternoon - appreciate all the messages from everyone I’ll be back and ready to go soon.”

Randle added: "Absolutely gutted I won’t take the start in today’s Supercars race. After a cool suit failure on the warm up lap yesterday I battled all the way until the end in 32 degree heat.

"I was in the medical center last night for treatment, and this morning I tried my best in qualifying but have since returned to the medical centre post qualifying.

"As much as it kills me to sit out a race (something I have never done in my career) I know this is the best for my recovery.

"I wish Frosty all the best in the Castrol car and also cheering on Cam from pole thanks to Dr Carl, Brad Sampson and the medical team for their support."

Kostecki and Randle will resume their 2026 Supercars campaigns in Townsville on July 10-12.