The Most Important Co-Driver Responsibilities on a Supercar Rally

Supercar rallies are all about high-performance machines, scenic routes, and unforgettable experiences. But behind every great driver is an even greater co-driver (I’m usually a co-driver, so I am clearly biased, but still). The role of a co-driver goes far beyond just riding shotgun; they’re the navigator, communicator, DJ, snack distributor, and overall support system. If you’re stepping into the passenger seat for a supercar rally, here’s how to be the best co-driver possible. If reading is too exhausting for you watch this short reel instead.

Navigation: Keeping the Rally on Track

A supercar rally is only as good as its route — luckily for us Asa does a great job mapping out the best roads and best stops. While many rallies provide GPS waypoints or pre-mapped routes, a co-driver should always be ready to step up. This means keeping an eye on navigation apps, ensuring you don’t miss an important turn, and quickly adapting if unexpected roadblocks or detours arise.

Pro tip: Have Waze, Google Maps, and the rally’s preferred navigation system loaded up. Pre-download maps in case of poor reception, and make sure you understand the route ahead of time. Anticipating upcoming turns, toll roads, or fuel stops will make the drive much smoother for your team.

Communication: Staying in Sync with the Group

Most rallies rely on a group chat to stay connected. Your job as the co-driver is to monitor messages, relay important updates to the driver, and help coordinate stops with the rest of the squad.

If someone gets lost, you’re the one who helps them catch up. If a fuel or food stop is coming up, you make sure everyone is on the same page. And if police or unexpected obstacles appear, you need to quickly inform the group.

A co-driver who stays engaged with the chat helps keep the rally flowing smoothly and prevents unnecessary delays. Bonus points for dropping some funny jokes in the chat, too. 

The DJ: Setting the Perfect Vibe

Music is a key part of any rally experience. You’re not just playing songs—you’re curating the perfect soundtrack for high-speed cruising and scenic stretches. Spotify’s Jam Session feature is a game-changer, allowing both driver and co-driver (or even the whole group) to queue up tracks in real time.

Reading the mood and adjusting the playlist accordingly can turn a good rally into an unforgettable one.

Keeper of the Snacks: Fueling the Ride

A co-driver’s responsibility extends to keeping the driver energized and hydrated. This means stocking up on essentials like energy drinks and candies (sorry if I’ve ever spilled a bag of individually wrapped Hershey kisses in your car). 

It’s also your job to keep things organized. That means having a dedicated snack bag, managing trash, and throwing it away at each gas stop while the driver refuels. Nobody wants an interior cluttered with empty cans and wrappers by the end of the rally.

Being a great co-driver isn’t just about sitting in the passenger seat—it’s about being an active participant in the rally experience. By mastering navigation, communication, music, and snack duty, you’ll make the trip more enjoyable for both your driver and the whole rally crew. Plus, the better you do your job, the more likely you’ll be invited back for the next adventure.

So buckle up, get your playlist ready, and be the co-driver every supercar driver wishes they had!