V8 Supercars boss James Warburton says a second event in New Zealand is “absolutely” something they would consider, but several boxes would have to be ticked before it happens.
This weekend is the 15th time the series has raced in front of a Kiwi crowd, with Pukekohe in its 10th year hosting, while Hamilton played that role four times from 2008-11.
The annual trip to New Zealand is universally enjoyed by teams and drivers not only because of the exciting track at Pukekohe, but also for the laid-back atmosphere and passion Kiwi motorsport fans exhibit.
“The teams and drivers love it and it’s always great to get away too,” Warburton said.
“A lot of the teams extend [their stay]. Some come earlier, some stay on. For now it’s just speculation, but would we consider another one, absolutely.”
With the series in a period of growth, evidenced by their first official event in Malaysia next year, the possibilities for a second event in New Zealand have also received a boost.
After undergoing a $6.6 million upgrade to regain the rights for 2013, Pukekohe has a contract to host a V8 Supercars race meeting until 2017.
Warburton said discussions round possibly extending that contract would likely be had towards the end of this year or early next year, which would also be a good time to have any discussions about the potential for another New Zealand event.
Any other Kiwi track and event would have to meet the appropriate standards in several areas.
“Obviously there’s been some changes in terms of ownership and development of some [New Zealand] facilities,” Warburton said.
“Ultimately we have a big show. [The track] has to have certification from the FIA… and the pit facility, the corporate hospitality, the hotels and accommodation, all those types of things that assist in driving economic impact.”
One of four Kiwis in the V8 Supercars field, Team Volvo driver Scott McLaughlin, said his Australian counterparts loved coming to New Zealand to race.
The proud young New Zealander threw his support behind the idea for a second event on this side of the Tasman, but understood a number of things had to line up for that to happen.
“Basically every driver I speak to loves this joint,” he said.
“If they could work something out with Hampton Downs or somewhere down south, it would be pretty cool to go down there.
“I’m sure V8 Supercars will decide what’s good for the sport. As a driver you want to race on any track you can, but they have do it for other reasons as well.”
