The Bend 500 is here to stay
By Thomas Miles
Date posted: 10 September 2025
The AirTouch 500 at The Bend will remain at Shell V-Power Motorsport Park for the future, with a new deal announced on the eve of its anticipated debut.
This weekend, the state-of-the-art South Australian venue will host the iconic 500km September enduro for the first time.
But it will not be a one-off with a new deal ensuring the race will kick off the Ryco Enduro Cup for the next three years.
It secures the short-term future of the 500km race, which has been previously hosted by Sandown, Queensland Raceway and Phillip Island.
Since opening and first hosting Supercars in 2018, The Bend has eyed a Supercars enduro, and the venue has received a facelift in time for the historic race.
The major infrastructure upgrades include the installation of Formula One style starting lights, which have never been seen at a permanent track in Australia before, plus Smart Marshalling technology and new curbing.
CEO of Shell V-Power Motorsport Park Alistair MacDonald, said the new deal is a strong sign of intent that the venue is a leader in Australia.
“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,” he said.
Sandown has long been the home of the 500km race after Supercars celebrated the 60th anniversary last year.
But Supercars CEO James Warburton cannot wait to see The Bend stamp itself on a new era.
“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,” he said.
“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.”
More than 40,000 fans are expected to see the first-ever South Australian Supercars enduro.
This will hit the mark set in 2023 when Supercars last raced at the venue and 41,237 rolled through the gates.
The highest Bend crowd is 41,250 achieved in the inaugural round in 2018.
Almost 3000 of the crowd will be campers with sites already sold out ahead of the big weekend.
After a year away from The Bend, South Australian Minister for Tourism, Zoe Bettison MP believes the AirTouch 500 can work alongside the bp Adelaide Grand Final as one of the biggest racing events of the year.
“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,” she said.
“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.
“Whether you’re chasing endurance racing, cheering on the TCR World Tour, or looking for an unforgettable family-friendly adventure, this event will deliver on every level.”
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