The Bend Motorsport Park extends Supercars enduro deal

The Bend Motorsport Park will host Supercars until at least 2028, with the South Australian venue announcing a three year extension.

This weekend's AirTouch 500 at The Bend marks the first Ryco Enduro Cup round at the Tailem Bend circuit in its history. Announced on the eve of the September 12-14 event, The Bend will host the traditional pre-Bathurst enduro for the next three years, and will also undergo a raft of significant upgrades.

A suite of major infrastructure upgrades at the precinct, including the installation of Formula 1-style starting lights, Smart Marshalling technology and new kerbing, will be implemented in coming years.

The circuit has hosted Supercars since 2018, and with the new upgrades, will also be capable of hosting MotoGP.

The Bend, which operates under its commercial name Shell V-Power Motorsport Park, is expected to host more than 40,000 fans this weekend. Trackside campsites have sold out, and limited spaces remain on the Dragway, with nearly 3000 campers set to roll out swags and caravans.

The AirTouch 500 at The Bend will be the venue's biggest event yet, with Supercars to be supported by FIA Kumho TCR World Tour, Porsche Paynter Dixon Carrera Cup Australia and Trico Trans Am Series.

“Securing the Enduro at The Bend for the next three years shows the strength of our motorsport offering and the investment we’re making into the future - these innovations ensure The Bend remains a world-class destination for fans and competitors alike,” Shell V-Power Motorsport Park CEO Alistair MacDonald said.

Supercars Chief Executive James Warburton said: "The Bend has established itself as one of Australia's premier motorsport venues since its opening, and their ongoing infrastructure investment reinforces its world-class credentials. This circuit was purpose-built for endurance racing and provides an exceptional test for our drivers and teams.

"South Australian fans are among the most passionate in the country, and this commitment ensures they will continue to experience Supercars endurance racing at the highest level. The economic impact for the region is significant, and we're proud that Supercars endurance racing will be part of South Australia's sporting landscape for years to come."

Founder Sam Shahin said: “Our ambition has always been to create a circuit capable of attracting the world’s greatest motorsport events. This three-year deal, combined with the roll-out of F1-standard technology, demonstrates that The Bend has the credibility and capability to host championships of MotoGP calibre and beyond.

Co-owner Yasser Shahin added: “Motorsport has the power to put South Australia on the world stage. By locking in the Enduro at The Bend for three more years and investing in cutting-edge infrastructure like F1 lights and Smart Marshalling, we are signalling a clear long-term intent: to deliver unforgettable experiences, grow regional economies, and build a legacy that lasts for generations."

The Hon. Zoe Bettison MP, South Australian Minister for Tourism, said: “The Bend has quickly established itself as one of Australia’s premier motorsport venues, and this weekend’s Airtouch 500 takes it to the next level with a world-first program.

"Hosting international categories alongside Australia’s Supercars reinforces our State’s reputation for staging globally significant events while driving real tourism and economic benefits into our regions.

"With more than 40,000 people expected over the weekend, including nearly 3,000 campers, it’s also a boost for local businesses and communities in the Murray River, Lakes & Coorong."

Track action at The Bend commences Friday.