Sunshine and Standout Performances Close Out LIQUI MOLY GT Festival The Bend
The 2026 LIQUI MOLY GT Festival The Bend came to an exciting conclusion on Sunday as competitors took advantage of perfect conditions to deliver a memorable final day at Shell V-Power Motorsport Park.
Credit: Samuel Densley Photography
After an action-packed Saturday, teams returned determined to finish the weekend strongly, producing close battles, breakthrough victories and championship-defining performances across every category.
GT World Challenge Australia powered by AWS once again delivered headline moments, with Tigani Motorsport completing a flawless weekend performance. Jayden Ojeda and Paul Lucchitti guided their Mercedes-AMG to victory after surviving sustained pressure in the closing laps. The fight for the podium remained intense throughout the race, highlighting the depth and competitiveness of Australia’s premier GT category.
Monochrome GT4 Australia produced one of the standout stories of the weekend. Strategy and race interruptions created opportunities throughout the field before Summer Rintoule and Jarrod Hughes converted strong pace into a landmark victory, with Rintoule becoming the first female race winner in category history. The result marked a significant moment for the championship while demonstrating the increasingly competitive nature of GT4 racing in Australia.
Credit: Samuel Densley Photography
Porsche Michelin Sprint Challenge added another chapter to its growing 2026 season as Kobi Williams secured an impressive endurance race victory. Strong race management and composed driving under pressure allowed the young driver to break through and continue building momentum in the title fight.
Motorcraft Mustang Cup Australia closed its weekend with another strong showing, with repeat success rewarding consistency across the two days of racing. Intense midfield contests and determined drives reinforced why the category continues to gain support among fans and competitors alike.
Ferrari Challenge Trofeo Pirelli Australasia also delivered redemption stories and fierce competition, as drivers responded after Saturday’s battles to finish the weekend on a high note. Close racing and determined performances ensured the final races maintained the energy and spectacle expected from the festival atmosphere.
Credit: Samuel Densley Photography
With Round Two complete, the Shannons SpeedSeries leaves The Bend with championship momentum beginning to build and attention already turning toward Queensland. If Sunday proved anything, it is that the 2026 season is only getting started.