Supercars are back

By Catherine Watson

PHILLIP Island will host a round of the Repco Supercars Championship for five years from 2027, bringing a major motorsport event back to the circuit after an eight-year absence.

Victoria’s Minister for Major Events, Anthony Carbines, announced the deal on Friday, a week before the island hosts its final MotoGP, ending a 30-year association with the international motorcycle grand prix.

The MotoGP and World Superbikes are moving to Adelaide next year, leaving Bass Coast businesses and tourism operators facing the loss of two of the region’s biggest drawcards.

Supercars, Australia’s leading touring car championship, features the best drivers from Australia and New Zealand racing high-performance Ford Mustangs, Toyota GR Supras and Chevrolet Camaros.

The championship has a long history at Phillip Island, which first hosted a round of the Australian Touring Car Championship in 1976. The circuit has staged 62 championship races, most recently in 2019.

Its return in 2027 will coincide with the 30th anniversary of the modern Supercars era.

“Supercars are coming back to Phillip Island, and so are the crowds and the customers for local businesses,” Mr Carbines said.

Bass Coast Mayor Brett Tessari welcomed the announcement, describing it as a positive step towards supporting Phillip Island and the broader region through the economic transition following the loss of MotoGP and World Superbikes.

“We’ve had a lot of discussions with both the State and Federal Government over the past 12 months, and those conversations will continue,” Cr Tessari said.

“We’re seeking support for a diverse calendar of events and experiences.”

Bass MP Jordan Crugnale said Supercars would complement the region’s arts and cultural festivals, water-based sporting events and nature-based attractions.

The Supercars announcement comes alongside plans for a new motoring event, with the inaugural Phillip Island Festival of Motoring confirmed for March 12-14, 2027.

The three-day festival will receive $44,000 through a Visit Victoria grant. The Liberal-National Coalition has pledged a further $100,000 if it wins government at the November state election.

The festival will build on the popular Motorsport Classic, adding new classic motoring experiences.

Organisers are also planning activities beyond the circuit, with Cowes to feature live music, race highlights, motorcycles along Thompson Avenue and a special motorsport exhibition at Berninneit celebrating Phillip Island’s racing history.

Australian Grand Prix Corporation chief executive Travis Auld said the circuit was one of Australia’s most recognisable motorsport venues and an ideal setting for the championship’s return.

For now, however, the focus remains on the final MotoGP this weekend.

“We are gearing up for a spectacular send-off for MotoGP – 30 years on the island and the last one is going to be a party like no other,” Mr Tessari said.