The V8 Supercar support event at the Australian Grand Prix has been confirmed for the next five years in a deal which sees a greater presence for the series.
The new deal will see separate pit facilities for the series, allowing them to make pitstops for fuel and tyres in an extended race format. The enhanced event will be known as the Albert Park 500, in reference to the total distance of the three races, with a 200km race on Friday and Saturday and a 100km race on Sunday the proposed format.
With $500 000 in prize money provided by V8 Supercars Australia up for grabs, teams and drivers will take the event more seriously than in the past, as some have used it as an extended test session due to its non-championship status.
Speaking about the new deal, Australian Grand Prix Corporation Chairman Ron Walker said: "Our passion for motorsport is not limited to Formula 1. We are committed to bringing an exhilarating V8 Supercar race to as many Australians as we can, providing them with the best of motorsport action."