This collaboration positions The Bend alongside prestigious motorsport giants such as Scuderia Ferrari’s Formula 1 team, Team Penske Nascar/IndyCar operations, Hyundai’s World Rally Championship team, and Australia’s very own Dick Johnson Racing, all members of the distinguished Shell motorsport family.
The fresh nameplate of Shell V-Power Motorsport Park was showcased at The Bend Welcome Centre, with the iconic Shell V-Power red hue now gracing the venue’s façade, further emphasising the brand’s presence.
Shell V-Power’s partnership comes at an opportune moment, as the park is anticipating a record-breaking year with over 310 on-track days in 2023. Motorsport enthusiasts can look forward to thrilling events including the OTR SuperSprint, the Australian Superbike Championship, and the Michelin Passion experience. Furthermore, elite automobile brands such as Ferrari, Porsche, Lamborghini, Audi, and BMW will also be showcasing various events.
Sam Shahin, the Managing Director of Shell V-Power Motorsport Park, shared his sentiments on this union, stating, “We are absolutely honoured that a powerful global brand has committed to such a strong and lengthy partnership with our business. It’s a testament to The Bend brand that we have developed since we set about building this venue close to a decade ago.”
Alistair MacDonald, the CEO, mirrored Shahin’s enthusiasm, saying, “We are excited and eager to work with VIVA Energy & Shell V-Power to create a partnership that is hugely beneficial for all parties and is representative of the combination of a world class venue and a world class brand.”
The excitement also reverberated within the VIVA Energy ranks. Jevan Bouzo, CEO of Convenience & Mobility at VIVA Energy Australia, said, “The Shell V-Power Motorsport Park at The Bend is an internationally award-winning venue and we are so proud to partner with them. This fantastic partnership brings together the quality and performance of Shell V-Power with state of the art facilities, setting new benchmarks and fuelling a passion for motorsports.”
South Australia’s Tourism Minister, Zoe Bettison, also expressed her optimism for this significant venture. “Signing a powerful global brand like Shell V-Power not only signals how strong The Bend is as a venue, but also how much confidence the market has in the long-term success of this terrific South Australian business. The Bend has been laser-focused on growing the venue as a world-class motorsport facility and a must-see destination in SA. Major events at The Bend last year contributed over $14 million of economic benefit to the state.”
Bettison further highlighted the region’s growing tourism appeal, with attractions such as the Monarto Safari Park, Murray River, Coorong, and the Langhorne Creek wine region.