V8 Supercars Looking At Developing Short-Race Format To Add To Traditional Events

Roger Penske's V8 Fords

V8 Supercars "is looking at developing the car racing version of cricket's Big Bash League to add to its traditional events in the future," according to Mark Fogarty of the SYDNEY MORNING HERALD.

Although there is no timetable for shorter race formats, V8 racing management "is investigating family-friendly events that feature action-packed programs lasting just a few hours."

While the first Big Bash-style "quick-hit" Supercars event is unlikely before '18, two of V8's most enduring races "will continue the successful heritage themes adopted this year."

Supercars CEO James Warburton confirmed that next year's Sandown 500 "will again be the sport's retro round, and following the success of this year's Peter Brock tribute, the 2017 Bathurst 1000 will feature a Heroes & Legends theme."

According to Warburton, Supercars' recent growth in broadcast and digital audiences "has made the business healthy again and made it time to explore future alternative formats to boost attendances at some of the less glamorous regular sprint race events."

He said, "Part of our 2025 vision is coming up with additional concepts to add to the existing mix of event formats. We're looking for another format, something unique." If approved in the next couple of years, Warburton views racing under lights at Sydney Motorsport Park "as ideal for a short-duration entertainment spectacular." SMH