COUNTDOWN
Event starts in...
GROUP 1
GROUP 1 in drag racing includes Top Fuel, Nitro Funny Car, Top Doorslammer and Top Fuel Bike categories. Some of the fastest accelerating machines will tackle Dragway at The Bend's 1/4 mile. But the burning question is whether the current Australian record holders will improve their times?
Get ready for an adrenaline-pumping weekend as the renowned Australian TOP FUEL Championship roars back to life at the Riverbend Nationals, scheduled for March 28-29, 2026! This event promises to be a thrilling spectacle, featuring an electrifying lineup of National Drag Racing Championship Group 1 & Sportsman racers. All set against the stunning backdrop of the Shell V-Power Motorsport Park's Dragway at The Bend.
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Witness the awe-inspiring Top Fuel Racers as they push the limits, aiming to break near World Record times. With speeds exceeding 500+ KM/H, these machines are set to dazzle and astonish once again. What new feats will they achieve?
Feel the power as these beasts roar off the line, an experience so intense you'll feel it in your bones. This is your chance to create memories that will last a lifetime.
ENTERTAINMENT
Top Fuel & Nitro Funny Cars
Brace yourself for the ultimate drag racing spectacle as Top Fuel Dragsters and Nitro Funny Cars take center stage at the Riverbend Nationals, pushing the limits in pursuit of near world-record times! These earth-shaking machines, packing 11,000+ horsepower, will thunder down the strip at over 500 KM/H! With history in the making and records on the line, what new feats will these fire-breathing monsters accomplish?
Top Doorslammer & Top Fuel Bike
Top Fuel Bikes are back after a thrilling 2025 showdown! Damien Harris smashed the Australian Top Fuel record with a mind-blowing 3.683 sec at 534 km/h in qualifying, but Wayne Newby claimed the title. Now the bikes return to chase glory and rewrite the record books.
And don’t miss the Top Doorslammers! After Russell Taylor dominated the field last year, the competition is hotter than ever. Expect big horsepower, fierce rivalries, and history in the making.
Sportsman Series
​There’s even MORE racing to keep non-stop action going! From high-horsepower machines to the next generation of drag racing superstars, there’s something for every motorsport fan. A stacked lineup of support categories includes Competition, Super Stock, Competition Bike, Top Sportsman, Supercharged Outlaws, Modified, Super Sedan, Super Street, Modified Bike, Super Gas, Junior Dragster & Junior Bike.
Kids Entertainment
The Riverbend Nationals isn’t just about heart-pounding drag racing — it’s non-stop fun for the whole family! Kids (and parents!) can enjoy FREE carnival rides all weekend long! Pick between the Ali Baba ride or the Ferris Wheel! Or why not both — as many times as you like! So, parents — consider your weekend entertainment sorted. Exciting racing, free rides, and an action-packed atmosphere! KIDS 4/U ENTER FREE!
HELICOPTER FLIGHTS
Take Your Experience to New Heights with $99 Helicopter Flights! The best seat in the house and the fastest accelerating machines on the planet from an unforgettable bird’s-eye view!
Soak in breathtaking aerial views of The Bend! Feel the raw power of the race like never before! Lift your game and buckle up for the ultimate motorsport experience!
TICKETING OPTIONS
General admission ticket allows access to unreserved terrace seating and grass mound areas on the Western and Eastern side of the Dragway along with pit area access.
Secure your reserved seat so you can explore everything the event has to offer and return when you’re ready for more racing!
The Perfect view atop the Eastern Terracing, enjoy casual catering and a private cash bar.
The Best view in the house… Stare directly down the track and overlook all of the action from the comfort of the Top View Suite. Catering included and a cash bar just metres from every seat.
ACCOMMODATION
Located within “Shell V-Power Motorsport Park”, BIG4 The Bend Holiday Park is located right in the middle of the
action...whether you want to spend the day at the track, challenge your friends on the go-karts, or relax by the pool while the kids bounce around on the jumping pillow. The Holiday Park is also the perfect base to explore, relax and enjoy the Murraylands and Coorong regions.
Experience racing in comfort with our convenient on-site accommodation options. Whether you prefer the luxury of a 4-star Rydges Pit Lane hotel or the cozy charm of our Deluxe Villas or Cabins, we have something for every visitor. Choose from a range of options including powered and unpowered sites, as well as camping facilities if you prefer to be closer to nature. Don't miss a moment of the thrilling racing action - stay with us and immerse yourself in the excitement.
SOUTH AUSTRALIA
Travelling from interstate for Riverbend Nationals? Are you in search of a little more? We have you covered!
Extend your holiday and explore all of the amazing things South Australia has on offer, or take it a step further with South Australia's own TRIP PLANNER.
Did you know, that Australia has one of the longest rivers in the world? At over 2500km long The Mighty Murray River flows from the border of NSW and VIC all the way through South Australia and into the Great Australian Bight. Get to know the Murray River.
