20/10/2026
We are looking forward to this weekend and the season. We have built a new car for the season so we will see what it brings - at least we know the driver is ready and pumped.
Formula 500s Ready to Light Up Powerpalooza
The Opal Finance Formula 500s are set to roar back into action this Saturday night at the Perth Motorplex, with an exciting 18-car field assembled for the opening round of the 2026/27 season as part of the spectacular Powerpalooza program.
Reigning WA Champion Cody Turacchio enters the new campaign with a fresh look, unveiling a striking new paint scheme and race number, but the goal remains exactly the same. After opening last season with victory at Powerpalooza before going on to secure the state championship, Turacchio will be hoping lightning can strike twice as he looks to begin another season in style.
Standing in his way is one of the most successful drivers ever to race at the Perth Motorplex. Steven Ellement remains the winningest driver in the venue's history and will be determined to add to that remarkable record as another season gets underway.
One driver many will have their eyes on is Isaac Arnold. Making the transition into Formula 500s, Arnold immediately looked at home behind the wheel and showed genuine front-running speed throughout the campaign. With valuable experience now under his belt, he shapes as a genuine contender and could well emerge as one of the division's breakout stars this season.
Another driver expected to be in the mix is Brendon Marshman. A long-time stalwart of Formula 500 racing in Western Australia, Marshman continues to be one of the category's most respected competitors and will be aiming to add another memorable chapter to his career.
The new season also welcomes an exciting newcomer, with Leah Heeps stepping into the senior ranks after progressing through the Junior Formula 500 division. Having developed her skills over several seasons, Heeps now begins the next stage of her career and will be one to watch as she settles into senior competition.
Adding further intrigue is the return of two proven front-runners. Mark House and Thomas Davies are both back behind the wheel after time away and have already demonstrated they possess the speed to challenge for feature race victories whenever they hit the track.
Shane Andersson also returns for the season opener and, in an exciting change for the experienced campaigner, has his equipment ready in time for the opening meeting of the season. If luck is on his side, Andersson has every chance to feature prominently throughout the night.
The field is also bolstered by several fresh faces, with Craig Donaldson and Logan Visser both set to continue to build on their Formula 500 careers, developing their skills in one of speedway's most competitive divisions.
With returning stars, championship contenders, experienced veterans and exciting newcomers all sharing the circuit, the Formula 500s promise to provide plenty of entertainment as they launch another season at the Perth Motorplex.
Release by DTN Media.