A MEGA deal has been struck between the major backers of Dick Johnson Racing and the owners of The Bend Motorsport Park.
Viva Energy, the company which DJR liaises with as the exclusive licensee of Shell in Australia, is set to acquire the OTR Group from the Peregrine Corporation.
Peregrine is the business of the Shahin family, which owns the Tailem Bend motorsport facility in South Australia.
The agreement is reportedly worth $1.15 billion, although is subject to approval from the ACCC (Australian Competition and Consumer Commission).
“The announcement today marks an incredibly exciting time for our company, delivering on several core objectives; to see OTR national, to be the leading convenience brand in Australia and to remain true to our roots headquartered in Adelaide,” said OTR founder Yasser Shahin, who is gunning a third straight GT World Challenge Australia title this year.
The Bend has subsequently announced a 10-year naming rights sponsorship with Viva Energy.
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“This is an exciting time for The Bend,” said the circuit’s managing director Sam Shahin.
“I expect the partnership with Viva Energy will further build on The Bend’s reputation as a world class motorsport facility and will accelerate the venue’s next phase of growth as a top tier destination for both corporate and private clients across motorsport and non-motorsport events.
“There is a natural synergy between The Bend and Viva Energy as a supplier of high-quality Shell fuels and lubricants in Australia.
“I am looking forward to a long term association with Viva Energy as we work to expand the facility and uses of the venue.”
Among the major events to be hosted by The Bend this year will be Round 8 of the Repco Supercars Championship in August.
