Supercars - The Bend Enduro

The Bend Enduro brings v8supercars endurance racing to The Bend Motorsport Park in South Australia. This event, officially known as the AirTouch 500 at The Bend, features a 500-kilometre race that tests both drivers and machines over an extended distance. Teams field two drivers for this endurance challenge, pairing primary competitors with co-drivers to share the demanding workload.

Circuit Configuration and Layout

The Bend Motorsport Park showcases the West Circuit configuration for this v8supercars event. This 3.41-kilometre layout features 12 turns and offers a different challenge compared to the longer International Circuit. The compact West Circuit creates more laps over the 500-kilometre distance and provides multiple overtaking opportunities. Turn 6 presents a tight right-hander that serves as a prime passing zone.

The facility sits approximately 100 kilometres south-east of Adelaide in Tailem Bend. The venue operates under multiple names, including Shell V-Power Motorsport Park. The complex holds an FIA Grade 2 license and an FIM Category A track license, which allows it to host major international motorsport competitions.

Race Format and Structure

The Bend Enduro takes place over three days of track action. The schedule includes multiple practice sessions, with some dedicated specifically to co-drivers. Qualifying sessions determine the starting grid, followed by a Top 10 Shootout for the fastest competitors. The main 500-kilometre race caps off the weekend.

The shorter West Circuit layout increases the total number of laps compared to longer configurations. This format adds strategic depth for teams managing fuel consumption, tyre wear, and pit stop timing across the extended distance.

Participating Manufacturers and Teams

Three manufacturers compete in the Gen3 v8supercars championship. Ford fields the Mustang, Chevrolet enters the Camaro, and Toyota debuts the GR Supra. Toyota Gazoo Racing supports two teams: Walkinshaw TWG Racing and Brad Jones Racing. Each team assembles two-driver combinations to tackle the endurance format.

Technical Specifications

Gen3 v8supercars follow regulations that bring the race cars closer to their road-going versions. The cars use a control chassis with manufacturer-specific bodywork and V8 engines. The minimum weight sits at 1345 kilograms, including the driver and racing apparel. The minimum front axle weight measures 730 kilograms.

For endurance races at The Bend Motorsport Park, fuel capacity reduces to 121 litres. Teams use fuel towers during pit stops to refuel the cars. Dunlop supplies control tyres for all competitors, offering both Soft and Super Soft dry compounds, plus wet weather options. Teams must change a minimum number of tyres at each compulsory pit stop.

Support Categories

The Bend Enduro features multiple support categories racing alongside the main v8supercars event. Expected categories include the FIA Kumho TCR World Tour, Porsche Carrera Cup, Trans Am, Touring Car Masters, and Aussie Racing Cars. These series provide additional racing action throughout the weekend.

Facility Features

The Bend Motorsport Park offers a comprehensive motorsport complex beyond the main circuit. The facility includes a drag racing strip, drift circuit, karting track, rally-cross circuit, driver training areas, and a 4WD adventure park. A 100-room hotel integrates into the pit building, giving guests track views from their rooms.

The venue can configure multiple circuit layouts. The full GT Circuit stretches 7.770 kilometres with 35 turns, making it the second-longest permanent race track worldwide after the Nürburgring Nordschleife. The International Circuit measures 4.950 kilometres with 18 turns.

Event Background

The Bend Motorsport Park opened its doors in early 2018. The Shahin family-owned Peregrine Corporation developed the facility, transforming a former test track into a modern motorsport venue. The circuit earned "International Motorsport Facility of the Year" recognition in 2019.

Endurance racing at The Bend Motorsport Park serves as a key preparation event before the Bathurst 1000. The venue has secured an agreement to host v8supercars events through at least 2028. This endurance race format returned to South Australia after a gap in the calendar, bringing 500-kilometre racing back to the state.

What Makes This Event Special

The Bend Enduro stands out as a strategic challenge for teams. The 500-kilometre distance requires careful management of fuel, tyres, and driver changes. The West Circuit configuration differs from traditional layouts used for v8supercars races at this venue, adding a fresh dimension to team strategies.

The facility aims to boost the Tailem Bend region through motorsport tourism. The complex hosts various racing series beyond v8supercars, including the Asian Le Mans Series, TCR Australia, GT World Challenge Australia, and motorcycle championships. This diversity showcases the venue's capability to accommodate different racing formats.

The combination of endurance racing, multiple manufacturers, and a technical circuit creates compelling competition. Teams must balance speed with reliability over the extended distance. Driver pairings combine experienced primary drivers with skilled co-drivers, each bringing different strengths to the partnership. The West Circuit's layout promises close racing with frequent overtaking opportunities, while the endurance format tests the cars' durability and the teams' pit crew efficiency.