McLaughlin to miss Bathurst, Davison brothers reunite

The Shell V-Power Racing Team has confirmed Scott McLaughlin will not feature for the team in Bathurst.

Due to current government restrictions and quarantine requirements caused by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, United States-based McLaughlin will not travel to Australia.

The Ford squad announced Alex Davison will share the #17 Mustang with brother and two-time Great Race winner Will at the Repco Bathurst 1000.

Amid uncertainty over McLaughlin's availability, Alex Davison was announced as the team's reserve driver in May.

December's race will be the fifth time brothers Alex and Will will share a car at Mount Panorama. They finished fourth together in 2014.

2017 podium-finisher Tony D’Alberto will share the #11 Mustang with Anton De Pasquale, who will make his first Bathurst start for the team.

"We knew from the beginning of the season that Scott’s availability to race with us this year would rest on a number of factors, including the ever-evolving COVID-19 pandemic along with the IndyCar schedule," team chairman Ryan Story explained.

"Unfortunately, the timing just hasn’t aligned how we’d hoped.

"Alex is a quality driver who has a history with this team, and of course pairing him with his brother makes them a terrific combination for this year’s Great Race.

"He has been spending a lot of time with us here at the workshop, getting to know the cars and the team and learning how we operate.

The Davison brothers have raced four times together

"Tony has been with the team for a number of years now and has proven himself a fast, reliable and solid co-driver.

"He brings vast experience and will form a great combination with Anton."

McLaughlin was disappointed he couldn’t travel home for the race, and to see family and friends.

However, the 2019 Bathurst winner placed full faith in Alex Davison to do the job alongside younger brother Will.

"It is disappointing to not be able to travel home and take part in the biggest race on the Australian motorsport calendar," said McLaughlin, who was crowned IndyCar Rookie of the Year last week.

McLaughlin won for the team with Alex Premat in 2019

"It’s something I was looking forward to, but with the prolonged quarantine requirements and Australian COVID-19 restrictions, the timing just hasn’t worked out.

"I was also looking forward to seeing the team, the Supercars supporters, and my family and friends - who I haven’t seen in over 18 months - and putting on a great show at Mount Panorama.

"Hopefully we can see what 2022 brings.

"I know Alex will do a great job in my place. I’ll certainly be watching from the US and wish the team the best of luck for the season finale."

The Repco Bathurst 1000 will be a six-day event between November 30 and December 5.