Chaz Mostert’s #1 Signals a New Era for Walkinshaw Andretti United – And a Shift in Supercars Tradition
For decades, the #1 plate in Australian Supercars has carried immense weight – a symbol of dominance and a target for every competitor. But in recent years, a curious trend emerged: champions opting to retain their preferred numbers rather than embrace the prestigious #1. Now, with Chaz Mostert’s decision to run the #1 for Walkinshaw Andretti United (WAU) in 2024, that trend appears to be reversing, potentially signaling a renewed respect for tradition and a strategic move for team branding. But is this simply a return to the old ways, or does it represent a deeper shift in the dynamics of Supercars racing?
The Rebellion Against #1: A Recent History
Shane van Gisbergen and Scott McLaughlin, two of the most successful drivers of the modern Supercars era, both famously eschewed the #1. Van Gisbergen remained fiercely loyal to #97, while McLaughlin continued with #17. Their reasoning? A strong personal connection to their existing numbers and a desire to avoid the added pressure that comes with the championship plate. This sparked debate amongst fans and pundits alike – was it a sign of humility, a marketing ploy, or simply a matter of personal preference? According to a recent industry report, driver branding and fan loyalty are increasingly influencing number choices, even above traditional symbolism.
Why Mostert Chose Tradition – And What It Means for WAU
Mostert’s decision is particularly significant given his team’s history. WAU, formerly the Holden Racing Team, hadn’t seen a #1 on its cars since 2002. While they’ve twice recruited reigning champions since then (James Courtney in 2011 and Garth Tander in 2008), both drivers ultimately chose to retain their existing numbers. Mostert acknowledged the weight of that history, stating it felt “unfitting” for WAU not to run the #1 and #2. This isn’t just about honoring the past; it’s a strategic branding move.
Key Takeaway: Mostert’s choice demonstrates a growing understanding of the power of team identity and the value of aligning with a legacy of success. The #1 isn’t just a number; it’s a visual representation of championship pedigree.
The Power of Team Branding in a Driver-Centric Sport
Supercars is often perceived as a driver-first sport, where individual talent reigns supreme. However, the increasing sophistication of team strategies and the growing importance of brand recognition are shifting the balance. WAU’s decision to actively encourage Mostert to take the #1 underscores this trend. By embracing the championship number, the team reinforces its commitment to winning and elevates its overall profile. This is particularly crucial as the sport navigates the transition away from Holden and towards the Gen3 era of racing.
Did you know? The #1 plate was first introduced to Supercars in 1960, and for decades, it was almost universally accepted as the mark of the champion.
The Gen3 Era and the Resurgence of Tradition
The introduction of the Gen3 regulations in 2023 leveled the playing field, creating a more competitive landscape. With the performance gap between teams narrowed, branding and team identity have become even more critical differentiators. The #1 plate, as a symbol of past success, can provide a psychological advantage – both for the driver and the team. It signals to competitors that WAU is a force to be reckoned with and reinforces the team’s winning mentality.
Expert Insight: “In a sport as fiercely competitive as Supercars, every advantage counts. The #1 plate isn’t just about tradition; it’s about sending a message to your rivals and instilling confidence within your own team.” – Mark Skaife, six-time Supercars Champion.
Will Others Follow Suit? The Potential for a Trend Reversal
Mostert’s decision could pave the way for other champions to reconsider their stance on the #1. While personal preference will always play a role, the strategic benefits of embracing the championship number are becoming increasingly apparent. We may see a future where the #1 is once again viewed as a badge of honor, rather than a burden. This shift could also influence driver contract negotiations, with teams potentially prioritizing drivers who are willing to embrace the team’s branding and legacy.
Pro Tip: For teams looking to maximize their brand impact, actively encouraging their champion drivers to adopt the #1 plate is a relatively low-cost, high-reward strategy.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Numbering in Supercars
The debate over the #1 plate highlights a broader trend in motorsport: the evolving relationship between individual drivers and team identity. As Supercars continues to evolve, we can expect to see teams become increasingly sophisticated in their branding and marketing efforts. The choice of numbers will likely become a more strategic decision, reflecting not only personal preference but also the team’s overall goals and aspirations. The rise of esports and social media will further amplify this trend, as drivers and teams seek to build stronger connections with fans and cultivate a loyal following.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why did Shane van Gisbergen and Scott McLaughlin not run the #1?
A: Both drivers had strong personal attachments to their existing numbers and preferred to continue racing with them, citing reasons ranging from fan recognition to avoiding added pressure.
Q: Is the #1 plate still important in Supercars?
A: Increasingly so. While recent champions opted against it, Chaz Mostert’s decision signals a renewed appreciation for the tradition and the branding benefits it provides.
Q: What impact will the Gen3 regulations have on team branding?
A: With the performance gap narrowed, team branding and identity will become even more critical differentiators, making the #1 plate and other branding elements more valuable.
Q: Could we see more champions running the #1 in the future?
A: It’s certainly possible. Mostert’s decision could encourage others to reconsider, recognizing the strategic advantages of embracing the championship number.
What are your predictions for the future of number choices in Supercars? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
