Super2 drivers excited for longer races

Drivers have welcomed the decision to bring in timed 40-minute races in the Dunlop Series, with the new format debuting in Perth next weekend.

From next weekend’s Bosch Power Tools Perth SuperSprint, drivers will complete two timed races.

It’s a move away from scheduled lap races, which are often cut short due to time certainty and Safety Cars.

Now, drivers are guaranteed 40 minutes of racing without a lap count.

The change will apply everywhere except the Bathurst round, which retains 100km races.

Doubly, Eggleston Motorsport rookie Kai Allen believes the new rule will also help drivers ready for Bathurst.

“It’s going to be a lot different, sometimes with Safety Cars we didn't get many laps,” Allen told Supercars.com.

“It’s a good change for us drivers, and it could lead to long races.

“If it comes down to the wire, it’ll help us get match-fit for the longer races in Bathurst.

“We’ll be a bit sweaty and worn-out, which is a good thing — it’s still a race.”

Teammate Cooper Murray added: “Tyre management is going to be the biggest factor.

“With how abrasive it is, and the races have been extended to 40 minutes — it’ll be a challenge if we get an extended green run.

“Over 40 minutes, that’s potentially 40 laps. Track position is key.

“You don’t want to be mid-pack with other guys, because that’s where the carnage is.”

Albury privateer Matt Chahda, who celebrates 50 rounds in Perth, also hailed the change.

However, the Super2 veteran still believes some drivers will still push the limits, although there won’t be as much punishment for mistakes in Perth versus Newcastle.

“It’s heaps better,” Chahda told Supercars.com.

“It’s hard when you’re scheduled to do, say, 21 laps, and you only get seven. It’s hard for us, and doesn’t look great on TV.

“40 minutes is better, but there’ll still be crazy silliness — we still see racers pulling over in bad spots, that causes Safety Cars.

"Perth’s not a bad one for that, but the sand traps can catch you out too. Everyone’s going to have a crack as always."

The combined Dunlop Super2 Series and Dunlop Super3 Series fields will be on track twice on Friday April 28 for practice.

They go straight into qualifying on Saturday morning before Race 1 on the Saturday.

There will be one final qualifying session on Sunday morning before Race 2 on the Sunday.

Super2 and Super3 drivers will tackle two timed 40-minute races.

All drivers will also feature in a signing session at the grassed area near General Admission on Saturday (12:40pm-1:10pm).

Bosch Power Tools Perth SuperSprint: Session times

All times AWST

Friday, April 28

Saturday, April 29

Sunday, April 30