Austin Cindric, known for his 2022 Daytona 500 triumph, is preparing for his first appearance in Supercars at the BP Adelaide Grand Final from November 27 to 30. Marking his “Austin Cindric Supercars debut Adelaide,” the Team Penske driver will race as a wildcard with a Ford Mustang supplied by Tickford Racing in South Australia.
Background to Cindric’s Entry and NASCAR-Supercars Crossover
Cindric’s entry follows attempts to attract NASCAR Cup champions Kyle Busch and Kyle Larson to the same event, though neither materialized. While some Supercars stars have raced in the United States—such as Shane van Gisbergen, Will Brown, Brodie Kostecki, Cam Waters, and Jack Perkins—drivers moving from NASCAR to Supercars is rare, in part due to NASCAR’s demanding schedule. However, this year’s Adelaide Grand Final takes place after the conclusion of the NASCAR season, giving Cindric the opportunity.
Cindric’s Racing Credentials and Australian Experience
At 27, Austin Cindric boasts over 140 NASCAR Cup starts and three wins, including his significant 2022 Daytona 500 rookie victory. He is among 16 drivers in this year’s Cup Series Playoffs, making his third consecutive playoff appearance. Cindric also clinched the NASCAR Xfinity Series championship in 2020. Although this will be his debut in a Supercars race, he previously raced in Australia at the 2015 Bathurst 12 Hours with Erebus, finishing seventh in class and 21st overall. Cindric has also tested a Supercars car and has shown interest in the series during the past.
Broader Interest in Cross-Continental Racing
After New Zealander Shane van Gisbergen made a splash in NASCAR in 2023 and transitioned to the series full-time, interest in cross-continental opportunities has grown. Several Supercars stars have sought experience in American racing, but until now, top-level NASCAR drivers like Cindric have not competed in Australia’s Supercars Championship. Cindric’s participation could encourage more crossovers in the future, especially as scheduling allows.
Potential Impact of Cindric’s Supercars Appearance
Cindric’s Supercars debut is likely to attract attention from both NASCAR and Supercars fans, highlighting collaborative opportunities between these premier racing series. With high-profile names like Kyle Busch and Kyle Larson previously rumored for the event, Cindric’s confirmed participation sets a precedent that may inspire further international driver exchanges in motorsports. The coming Adelaide Grand Final will be a key event to watch for cross-series dynamics and could mark a new chapter in racing careers that span continents.
