Tony D'Alberto announces Supercars co-driving retirement
D'Alberto recorded 22 Bathurst starts, two podiums
Shell V-Power Racing Team set to go into co-driver market
Dick Johnson Racing will have a new-look enduro roster for 2026, with Tony D'Alberto announcing his retirement from Supercars co-driving duties.
A veteran of 22 Bathurst starts, D'Alberto called time on his Supercars co-driving career at the conclusion of his 11th consecutive enduro campaign with DJR, driving with rookie Rylan Gray.
The 2007 Super2 champion has been a regular face in Supercars circles dating back to the mid-2000s, and drove full-time for Rod Nash Racing and his own family-run operation between 2008 and 2013.
The popular 40-year-old has remained a staple of the enduro grid since, securing three career Supercars podiums, two of which came at the Bathurst 1000 in 2017 and 2023.
D'Alberto declared that the increasing competitiveness of the Supercars field, combined with a desire to focus more on his family business, were contributing factors to his decision.
"It wasn't an easy decision to make, but I felt that the time was right to call time on racing in the Supercars endurance events," D'Alberto said.
"I feel unbelievably privileged to have competed at the highest level of Supercars racing for 22 years straight. It has been a great ride.
"The demands for the right preparation for any driver in Supercars are at an all-time high. You need to be in a race car as often as possible, and you need to be physically and mentally prepared. If any of those elements are off, then you are not doing yourself or your team any favours.
"Two Bathurst 1000 podiums is a really nice reward for the efforts over the years, not just from myself but for my family who have always been there on my journey."
D'Alberto is set to remain involved with the Shell V-Power Racing Team as an ambassador, appearing for commercial and promotional opportunities, and will also continue pursuing opportunities in the GT scene.
In a brief statement, DJR advised that they will announce D'Alberto's replacement co-driver "in due course."
DJR Executive Chairman Dr. Ryan Story said the opportunity to keep D'Alberto involved off-track was a no-brainer: “The reason he was in our car for 11 years is pretty simple. He was fast and he was professional.
"Two very memorable Bathurst podiums tell part of that story. The way he fitted into this team from day one, respectful of everyone around him and a great team player, tells the rest.
“That is why we are delighted he will continue with us in an ambassadorial role. Tony is as comfortable among our fans and supporters as he is with our partners and their customers in our corporate suite. He is effortless and second to none in that arena.
“To extend the relationship, albeit without him strapping on the helmet and race suit, is something we are deeply appreciative of."
