Supercars champion Scott McLaughlin has confirmed he won't contest the Bathurst 1000 in December.
After winning three consecutive championship crowns in Australia, McLaughlin has switched his attention to the US IndyCar circuit, where he was named Rookie of the Year, after finishing 14th overall.
The Kiwi teamed with Alexandre Premat for victory at Bathurst, en route to his 2019 title, and had planned to return downunder for this year's edition, between IndyCar seasons.
But when the 'Great Race' was delayed by Australia's latest COVID-19 outbreak, the timing no longer worked for McLaughlin, who will have begun testing for the next IndyCar season.
"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," says Shell V-Power Racing Team chairman Ryan Story. "Unfortunately, the timing just hasn't aligned how we'd hoped."
McLaughlin formally announced his withdrawal on Tuesday, with Alex Davison joining brother Will in the No.17 Mustang.
"It is disappointing to not be able to travel home and take part in the biggest race on the Australian motorsport calendar," says McLaughlin.
"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."
