Mark Winterbottom and James Courtney will swap their microphones for racing helmets, returning to the cockpit for the Ryco Enduro Cup with Tickford Racing and Team 18 respectively. 'Frosty' will partner Cameron Waters in the Monster Energy Ford Mustang, while 'JC' joins David Reynolds in the Snowy River Chevrolet Camaro.
The decision by Supercars to switch from the 4.95km International circuit to the shorter 3.41km West layout has become a talking point ahead of The Bend 500. The change will see the 500km race go from 102 laps to 147 laps. It is hoped that this will provide more passing opportunities for drivers and a better show for spectators.
James Courtney welcomed the change. "I think it'll be a better spectacle on the shorter track," he said. "The long one we disappeared all the way around the back, and that back section there was no passing or anything. It was a bit pointless. I think the shorter track produced great racing when we were there last time. Strategy-wise, it might mix it up a little bit as well – and also, we're more times past the fans and the pits. I think it's a better thing to do it that way."
Mark Winterbottom, who will return to The Bend Motorsport Park, acknowledged there were trade-offs between the layouts. The International circuit features some of the track's best corners – like the triple-apex, downhill right-hander – but ultimately wasn't conducive for passing. "From a driver's point of view, we love the long track, but from a spectator's point of view, and for the racing, the short track is going to turn it on," said Winterbottom. "I remember racing there in 2020 and the racing was next-level because it's a shorter track, there's less aero wash, more opportunities to pass, and the cars come around past the straight more. From a spectator's point of view, I hope that gets people in, because if they buy tickets they want entertainment and the short track is going to provide that."
Supercars has only used the West circuit once in 2020 during the coronavirus-afflicted season that resulted in a Tailem Bend double-header. The Bend has a deal to host the 500-kilometre Supercars enduro until at least 2028. The circuit change is tipped to produce a 'tough, intense' race and more competitive action.
With the new format, drivers and teams must adapt to the characteristics of the short circuit, which demands precision and a different strategy. The higher lap count also means more tyre and fuel management, as well as interaction with other cars. The combination of experienced drivers like Winterbottom and Courtney with this challenging race format promises exciting action at the upcoming Bend 500.
Baca Juga
SDRA rampungkan upgrade akses masuk di Sunset Strip Mildura jelang Sunset Nationals, didukung grant dan bisnis lokal untuk kenyamanan penonton.
Sandown Summer Enduro resmi jadi penutup Australian Endurance Championship 2026 pada 4-6 Desember. Simak jadwal dan persaingan ketatnya.
Aaron Cameron akan bergabung dengan OTAP Racing di Nankang World Excel Enduro bersama Caleb Paterson. Simak persiapan dan komentar mereka jelang balapan di QRDC.
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