Reigning Australian Top Doorslammer champion, Kelvin Lyle, has announced his retirement.

The decision comes in the aftermath of a high-speed crash in the final round of the 2022-23 season at Hidden Valley Raceway Darwin, June 17.

Lyle suffered four broken ribs, bruising and abrasions and spent several days in an induced coma.

“After two big crashes in five years, I don't think my body could handle another crash,” said Lyle who previously had crashed at Willowbank Raceway in 2019.

“The crash in Darwin was a warning sign. The emergency crew there wasn't sure if I was going to make it through."

"This has been a hard decision to make as drag racing has been a huge part of my life, but I also think it's the right one for my partner Shaniah and my kids."

The loss of Lyle is a major blow to the category that has been dominated in recent years by Lyle and fellow Western Australians John Zappia and Daniel Gregorini.

“I'll still go to meetings to catch up with many friends I've made through drag racing over the years. This is the end of me racing, but not the end of my loving and enjoying the sport,” Lyle added.

Round one of the 2023-2024 NDRC Doorslammer season will be held on October 21-22 at The Bend Motorsport Park, South Australia.