Final steps being taken for first Bend 500
By Thomas Miles
Date posted: 9 July 2025
Another box is ticked ahead of the first Supercars enduro at Tailem Bend, with the new naming rights partner announced in AirTouch.
Since the Sandown 500 returned in 2023, Penrite Oil has backed the race, but now having moved across the border to a new home, a new name is inked in.
September’s classic will now be known as the AirTouch 500 at The Bend.
Tailem Bend’s Shell V-Power Motorsport Park will host the 500km enduro for the first time and become the fourth track to do so after Sandown, Queensland Raceway and Phillip Island.
Organisers are hoping to host over 50,000 people across the September 11-14 weekend as the track returns to the Supercars calendar after a year off in 2024.
AirTouch is not unfamiliar to South Australian Supercars fans, having supported Mount Gambier rookie Kai Allen on his journey to the main game in Super2.
In addition to Supercars, TCR and the TCR World Tour will also be on show, plus Touring Car Masters.
“AirTouch is one of the most innovative home automation systems in the world,” said Sam Shahin, Managing Director of The Bend.
“I am proud to have the opportunity to work with a progressive business that shares our passion for motorsport.
“We will work hand in hand with AirTouch to deliver an epic spectacle in September; The AirTouch 500 promising to be another exciting instalment of 3 full days of entertainment, on and off the track.”
“I’m looking forward to going there because it is something different and it’s obviously a world-class venue, so I’m hoping having it as an endurance venue, it puts on a good show for Supercars.” SA racer Nick Percat said.
Kai Allen running with AirTouch backing during his maiden Super2 win at Townsville recently.
“Pit stops will be even more crucial than in the past, as drivers and co-drivers swap while the race goes on.”
“It’s fantastic to see a global company, proudly based right here in Adelaide, getting behind one of South Australia’s most significant regional events,” said Hon Zoe Bettison, Minister for Tourism.
“The AirTouch 500 at The Bend will drive tens of thousands of visitors into the Murray River, Lakes and Coorong, boosting local tourism, hospitality and the wider economy.
“It’s a brilliant showcase of South Australian innovation and our capacity to deliver world-class motorsport experiences.
“It’s especially exciting to see an Adelaide-based company investing in regional tourism and helping bring the dream of an Enduro round at The Bend to life.
“Events like this put our state on the global stage and bring real benefits to regional communities.”
Image: Mark Horsburgh
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