​The path toward the bp Adelaide Grand Final took a decisive turn at Sandown this afternoon as 2023 Supercars champion Brodie Kostecki secured his place in the season finale with a brilliant victory in the opening 250km race of the Penrite Oil Sandown 500. Driving for the Shell V-Power Racing Team, Kostecki eclipsed Penrite Racing star Matt Payne to take out the afternoon contest and lock in his championship credentials.
The 250km battle produced continuous action from the opening laps. Highlighting the early chaos, Aaron Cameron's car caught fire early in the proceedings, triggering immediate intervention. The race featured multiple Safety Car periods that repeatedly bunched up the field and tested restart strategies across the distance. Kostecki navigated each neutralisation cleanly to retain track position at the front of the field.
Behind the battle for the lead, Cam Waters put together a strong drive to finish in third position. Waters held off Chaz Mostert, who crossed the line in fourth, while Anton De Pasquale rounded out a solid run inside the top group by taking sixth position.
Tough Afternoon for Triple Eight Contenders
In contrast to Kostecki's triumph, Triple Eight drivers Broc Feeney and Will Brown endured a tough afternoon that impacted their weekend progress. Brown inserted himself directly into the victory fight, mounting a challenge against Kostecki for the race lead. However, the battle ended in frustration when Brown spun off the circuit during the contest, dropping heavily down the field to record a 20th-place finish.
Feeney experienced his own difficulties during the closing phase of the 250km encounter. After running near the head of the chase, the Triple Eight driver dropped back in the latter stages of the race, ultimately crossing the finish line in 11th position.
With the first 250km race concluded, the Finals-shaping action continues tomorrow at Sandown. Drivers will hit the track for qualifying starting at 11:20 AEDT, before contesting the second 250km race at 3:30pm to complete the event schedule.
