Supercars Championship
Big V8s, close racing and the mountain every Aussie fan knows.
2026 live
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The Supercars Championship is Australia's premier touring car series, a field of full-bodied, V8-powered sedans and coupes that race fender to fender on street circuits, road courses and one of the most famous tracks in the world. Cars look like showroom models, but they are purpose-built racers. Fans love the close pack racing, loud engines, and the way a single mistake can swing a result.
The roots go back to the Australian Touring Car Championship, first run in 1960, and to the long-running Bathurst endurance race. For decades the sport was defined by the Ford versus Holden rivalry, which turned Sunday car-park arguments into national debates. The series later became known as V8 Supercars before settling on the Supercars name. Its identity stayed the same: tough cars, tight racing, and passionate crowds.
How it works
- A race weekend usually mixes practice, qualifying and one or more races, and formats can change from event to event.
- Cars are built to a tightly controlled set of rules, so the differences come down to teams, setup, strategy and driver skill.
- Longer races bring pit stops, tire and fuel strategy, and safety car periods that can reshuffle the order in seconds.
- The big endurance races, including Bathurst, have traditionally used two drivers per car, so both need to be quick and consistent.
2026 schedule
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Showing the most recent and next events. Full calendar: official site.
Fan tips
- Check the official series site for the current schedule and broadcast options in your region, since time zones make Australian races an early start or late night for many US fans.
- If you go to an event, bring ear protection. These cars are loud, and kids especially need it.
- Arrive early and walk the circuit. Different corners offer very different views, and some spots show off braking zones and overtakes better than the grandstands.
- Follow live timing during a race. Pit stop windows and tire strategy often tell the real story before the leaders do.
Legends of Supercars
Books, biographies and collectibles about the series' greats.
FAQ
What is the Supercars Championship?
It is Australia's top touring car racing series, featuring V8-powered sedans and coupes in close, door-to-door competition. It grew from the Australian Touring Car Championship, which began in 1960.
Where is the Bathurst 1000 held?
It is held at Mount Panorama Circuit in Bathurst, New South Wales. The track climbs and drops across a mountain and is lined by walls, which makes it one of motorsport's toughest tests. Bathurst has hosted the race since 1963.
Why did the Ford versus Holden rivalry matter so much?
For many years Ford and Holden were the two dominant brands in Australian touring car racing, and fans picked sides much like fans of rival sports teams. Wins at Bathurst became part of family and community identity. Holden is no longer part of the sport, but the rivalry is still a big part of its history.
How is Supercars different from US stock car racing?
Both feature heavy, powerful, tightly regulated cars, but Supercars races on a mix of road courses and street circuits rather than mostly ovals. That means more braking zones, turns in both directions and a different feel to the racing. If you like close pack racing with strategy, you will probably enjoy both.