Thousands of motorsport fans from across the country will arrive in Adelaide from today, ahead of tomorrow's highly anticipated Virgin Australia Supercars Championship 2019 season opener, the Superloop Adelaide 500.
Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment David Ridgway said a bumper crowd was expected over the four-day event, pouring millions into the state's economy as racegoers fill hotels, restaurants, cafes and local bars and retailers.
"With a new naming rights sponsor, an exciting new racing program and an enviable entertainment line-up headlined by American rock legends the Red Hot Chili Peppers on Sunday night, this year's Superloop Adelaide 500 is shaping up to be the best yet,'' said Minister Ridgway.
"The city is already abuzz with the Adelaide Fringe and we look forward to adding a dose of high-octane Supercars excitement into the mix.
"In addition to the tens of thousands of motorsport fans, both local and interstate, who will come to enjoy the event, a global audience from more than 100 countries will watch the televised broadcast – showcasing the sport and South Australia to the world."
Mr Ridgway said organisers had made special preparations in light of the hot temperatures forecast over the next few days, with the ground offering numerous water refill stations, 2.24 hectares of installed shade, misting pipelines, umbrellas and cool zones, in addition to St John Ambulance stations with sunscreen and first aid assistance.
"Two giant inflatable slides – including a 55-metre long, 15m-high Godzilla waterslide – located in the City of Adelaide Family Zone will also provide some high-adrenaline fun and some cool relief for children, free of charge,'' said Minister Ridgway.
Today, the all-new Ford Mustang Supercars were welcomed to the city street circuit with drivers, defending champion Scott McLaughlin (Shell V-Power Racing), Fabian Coulthard (Shell V-Power Racing), Cam Waters (Monster Energy Racing), Chaz Mostert (Supercheap Auto Racing) and Lee Holdsworth (The Bottle-O Racing Team).
"We're thrilled to see the Ford Mustang return to the Supercars Championship grid for the first time in almost three decades,'' said Minister Ridgway.
Supercars CEO Sean Seamer praised the Adelaide 500 for its world-class offering.
"The Superloop Adelaide 500 is a premier event on our calendar and in Australian sport," Mr Seamer said.
"It has been a signature event for Supercars since 1999 and will remain so for a long time to come."
For more information and ticketing visit www.superloopadl500.com.au – single day tickets start at $45 with children aged 14 and under receiving free General Admission entry with a paying adult.
The Department of Planning, Transport and Infrastructure will run additional services on trains, trams and buses and provide free travel for patrons over the course of the event.
