Shock comeback: Crompton confirmed for Bathurst wildcard

Walkinshaw Andretti United has confirmed former racer and esteemed commentator Neil Crompton will make a wildcard appearance at October’s Repco Bathurst 1000.

The Supercars Hall of Famer will share a WAU Commodore ZB with team co-owner and American racing legend Michael Andretti.

It will mark Andretti’s first Bathurst 1000 appearance, and Crompton’s first since 2002, when he shared a Gibson Motorsport Falcon AU with Craig Lowndes.

It will be Crompton’s 17th Great Race start, with the 185-race veteran claiming podiums in 1992 and 1995.

Crompton at the ride day late last month

“The truth of the matter is, I just jumped out of it after a few runs, and I enjoyed it,” he told Supercars.com at the recent ride day at Sandown.

“I probably enjoyed it too much.

“You never lose your love for it; so, why not?”

Andretti said: “I’m really excited to come out of retirement and run at Bathurst this year with Neil.

“It’s going to be fun, I’ve known Neil for a long time, it’s going to be great.”

Crompton with veteran co-driver Lee Holdsworth

Crompton set about a brilliant pace at the Sandown ride day, but the animosity within the team has seen current drivers Chaz Mostert and Bryce Fullwood bemused by the decision.

Mostert, in particular, has set about laying on the mind games, with Crompton feeling the heat.

“I’ve been getting heavily teased by Chaz,” Crompton said.

"I think Bryce is thinking, ‘He’s an idiot’.

“Chaz has been hopping around as he does, and I haven’t stopped copping the abuse.”

Crompton took reporter Chad Neylon for a ride at Sandown

WAU team principal Bruce Stewart has also laid down the gauntlet, saying he expects Crompton and Andretti to place well at Mount Panorama.

“The guy should be shooting for top 10, that’s the expectation,” Stewart said.

“If you’re a Walkinshaw Andretti United driver, that’s what we want.

“If you’re a team owner or legendary commentator, it doesn’t matter. The expectation remains the same.”

Crompton and Andretti will get behind the wheel at Mount Panorama for the Repco Bathurst 1000 across October 7-10.

Happy April Fools Day!