Supercars teams keen to explore 'bold' new separate series
Supercars teams back "bold" new separate series vision
Incoming Supercars CEO recently revealed new vision of overseas series
Supercars, teams insist local championship is priority of business
Supercars teams are keen to explore a separate overseas series, despite echoing calls to prioritise the current championship.
Incoming Supercars CEO James Warburton recently revealed a new international expansion vision, which could see the introduction of a new separate series.
The latest expansion plan is to create a new series, based in Asia, using a duplicate set of Gen3 cars.
A new series would complement the existing Supercars Championship in Australia and New Zealand, with Supercars targeting 14 rounds for 2026.
The new season will include two events in New Zealand, marking the first season in 13 years to host two overseas rounds.
Warburton told media in Perth that current teams could choose whether to participate, which could see some teams expand their manufacturing and commercial footprint.
Triple Eight boss Jamie Whincup, whose team has experience racing GT cars in Asia, told media in Perth: “It’s bold plan by James, but that’s a good thing.
“I think we’ll be open to bold plans, if we can make it happen, make it happen. A five-round Asian series sounds exciting.
"Put some turbo charges on, a bit of NOS, you know, a bit of fast and furious stuff. Off we go, be fantastic. But no, it’s a bold plan, but it’s a good one. Let’s explore it.”
Blanchard Racing Team owner Tim Blanchard also backed the concept, but reiterated the existing focus on the current championship, something Warburton also stressed was a priority.
“We need to keep focused on growing the series here in Australia, but we also need to keep an eye on growing the sport,” Blanchard said.
“I think it’s a great initiative and if it’s executed well, which I’m sure will be, it’d be great for the sport. So, a lot to work through, but excited for the concept.”
Penrite Racing Team Principal David Cauchi agreed, saying: “It’s a good concept. It’s an interesting concept. There’s a lot to flesh out, if that were to happen.
“Making the championship strong in Australia, though, probably needs to remain the focus. Australian fans love our sport.
“It’s the premier category in the country, and we need to make sure it remains that first and foremost and looking after our sponsors that invest a lot of money here in this country.”
The 2025 season will resume in Darwin on June 20-22.
