POLL: Should Supercars shorten its sprint events?

The outspoken Scot believes three-day events are too drawn out and has called for Supercars to take inspiration from Kerry Packer’s one-day cricket revolution.

Quinn’s comments followed an event at his Taupo circuit earlier this year that was shortened from three to two days due to a cyclone warning.

The weekend’s Perth Super440 meanwhile featured a Friday where the only Supercars action was a pair of 25-minute practice sessions in the late afternoon.

That also triggered paddock discussion over whether Friday running is really worth the associated costs, especially for teams.

There are plenty of reasons why a reduction to two or even single-day events is unlikely to happen anytime soon.

Supercars’ deals with primary television partner Fox Sports, the various state governments and support categories are built around three-day events.

Negotiating to lop one or even two days off existing events would therefore likely take a sword to Supercars’ key revenue streams.

The TV deal with Fox, which has exclusive rights to Fridays at all events, is the biggest piece and the most difficult to wind back.

The category’s landmark switch to a primarily pay TV model was sold back in 2015 on the basis of quantity of content, an ethos that continues to underpin the current deal.

Those supportive of a shake-up note Friday TV viewership is minuscule and that televising practice and support acts is out of step with other sports.

At-track attendance on Fridays is also modest at best outside of marquee events.

What really matters is the appetite of the fan and whether three days is still the ideal format at a time of increased competition for attention and cost of living pressures.

That’s why this week’s Speedcafe Poll wants to know what you think; Should Supercars shorten its sprint events?

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