Supercars last ventured onto the Queensland Raceway in 2019
Tony Quinn says 2023 would be the ideal time for supercars to return to Queensland Raceway once the track is fully modernized.
Late last year, Quinn took over operations at the Ipswich facility from John Tetley, who still operates Lakeside Park.
As part of this change, there were talks between outgoing Supercars CEO Sean Seamer and Quinn to host the championship in 2022 on the Queensland Raceway.
However, no race is currently planned in the category at the South East Queensland facility.
With Gen3 rules and regulations going into effect, slated to go into effect in 2023, Quinn sees this as an opportune time for supercars to return.
Quinn can be seen in episode 17 of KTM Summer Grill and explained his motivations.
“[Supercars] obviously addressed me and said, ‘Well, look, I would really prefer you to come back in 2023’ – I’ll tell them what to do – but it would be better for everyone, “Quinn said.
“Because look, I’m telling you what, the people of Ipswich are screaming for the V8 to come back, right, but I think they should come back when it’s Gen3, when everything is set up, when everything is fine and tested Run.
“The lights, everything that has to be done, are tested. I would of course welcome them again anytime, but it would be better for everyone.
“You have a few obligations to clear this year, because of COVID you had to postpone things. If they can get back to normal, hopefully they can return to Ipswich in 2023. “
A number of upgrades are in the works for the Queensland Raceway, recently released renderings with new pit facilities as well as a renovated cafe and toilet block.
For Quinn, it is a must to whip up the facility before the leading touring car championship returns.
“I can tell you it will look like this by the end of June,” Quinn said, referring to the renderings.
“If I dare to mention it will be the first phase. Basically, I’ve already said that; getting the Queensland Raceway to where it should be.
“If they had invested half a million in the property or asset annually, it would have been there if that made sense.
“I’ll get it there quickly. I have to. That’s what we have to do. “
The Shannons Motorsport Australia Championships, led by the Supercheap Auto TCR Australia Series, will return to Ipswich in 2022.
The Australian Superbike Championship has also confirmed the Queensland Raceway for their 2022 calendar.
Supercars drove at the Ipswich Circuit every season between 1999 and 2019.
