The 2025 Repco Supercars Championship officially kicks off this weekend at the MSS Security Melbourne SuperSprint, featuring thrilling sprint races across the picturesque Albert Park Grand Prix Circuit. Running from March 13 to March 16, the event promises high-octane action as drivers compete for early season points and bragging rights on one of the world’s most iconic racing venues.
After a rollercoaster debut season, young driver Aaron Cameron has been called up to replace Aaron Love at Blanchard Racing Team. His first outing on March 13 proved to be significant as he navigated the rigorous challenges of the Melbourne SuperSprint. Cameron finished Practice 1 impressively, securing 10th position overall, after putting on fresh tyres, climbing up from the back to end the session just 0.8147 seconds shy of the top time by Ryan Wood of Walkinshaw Andretti United.
Reflecting on his first experience, Cameron remarked, "It’s much more calm now. That first one I was really shitting myself prior to it. I see these guys in this top category as elite...those first few laps were pretty scary. I was just holding on." He aims to exceed expectations, sharing his goal of finishing anywhere above 20th. "If we can get anything in the teens, I’ll be really happy," he added.
Meanwhile, the championship leader Cam Waters enters the event with momentum after securing three poles and three race victories at the season-opening Sydney 500. Mark Skaife provided insight on Waters’ successful start, stating, "Cam pace-wise has always shown extraordinary levels of speed...there’s not just one single element to Cam’s performance." Waters’ combination of talent, tactical racing, and consistent team support has guided his impressive 60-point lead heading to Melbourne.
The Melbourne SuperSprint features packed schedules each day, with the anticipation heightening around the unique racing opportunities during the Australian Grand Prix weekend. Besides Cameron and Waters, many seasoned competitors, including Chaz Mostert and Will Brown, will also be vying for strong positions throughout the races.
Notably, each day offers distinct schedules with practice sessions, qualifying rounds, and culminates each evening with explosive races. On March 13, the action kicks off with two practice sessions and the first race, Race 4, which consists of 19 laps starting at 5:50 PM local time. Following this Friday’s Race 5 and Saturday’s Race 6, the competition will conclude with the final Race 7 on Grand Prix Sunday.
"It’s really important to make the most of the practice sessions before qualifying, as we want to be competitive right out of the gate," stressed Cameron. This weekend's format is poised to test the skills and endurance of all competitors as they adapt to the track conditions and each other’s racing styles.
Waters, having dominated the Sydney 500, knows he’s the target now. Nevertheless, the competitive environment means he must be cautious. "There’s history on Triple Eight’s side, they were dominant last year and will come out hungry. They definitely have unfinished business after their performance last week," added Skaife, anticipating fierce competition at the front where drivers like Broc Feeney will be aiming to capitalize on any weaknesses from the leaders.
Despite being confident, Waters understands the perils of racing at high speeds, particularly with variable weather conditions expected this weekend: "You never want to come back from somewhere and go, if only we did this, this or this. If you have the chance, you must seize the moment. You know how quickly it can all slip away."
The race teams, including Blanchard Racing Team and professionals like Cameron, must prepare diligently to avoid unexpected setbacks as they look toward the point standings after each race. The stakes are high, and managing tire wear, track knowledge, and strategic planning will be pivotal this weekend.
The excitement around the 2025 MSS Security Melbourne SuperSprint is palpable; each driver is ready to showcase their talent at this renowned venue. Expect dramatic racing, strategic plays, and the thrill of the chase—all elements synonymous with Supercars racing. Observers can stream the event across various platforms, ensuring fans can tune in live without missing any of the excitement.
With four sprint races over four days, the Melbourne SuperSprint will set the stage for what promises to be one of the most competitive seasons yet. All eyes will be watching to see how rookie Cameron handles the pressure against seasoned contenders like Waters. Whether he affirms his place within the Supercars ranks or the dominance of established leaders like Waters persists remains to be seen as the teams hit the track.