UFC STAR ALEX VOLKANOVSKI NAMED AS AMBASSADOR, FUELING WOLLONGONG’S SUPERCROSS FRENZY AHEAD OF TICKET ON SALE

Following a strong showing of support for the recently announced Fox Australian Supercross Championship round at WIN Stadium on Saturday 2 November, Wollongong’s excitement for supercross has gone up another level today, with local and UFC star Alex Volkanovski, joining as an ambassador.

In an exciting media call this morning at WIN Stadium marking the forthcoming ticket on-sale for the highly anticipated event, Volkanovski was on-site with NSW-based supercross stars Matt Moss and Dylan Wills, where he received the ‘keys to the stadium’ and discussed his ambassadorship for the November event.

Volkanovski’s involvement sets the scene for a thrilling Australian Supercross event at WIN Stadium, adding further to the action and entertainment, with fans encouraged to lock in their tickets early to avoid disappointment.    

Championship Director, Kelly Bailey touched on the importance of a figure like Volkanovski to the Wollongong community, and why his support can help promote the profile of the supercross to solidify mainstream reach, in addition to the Wollongong event.

“There are so many synergies between combat and action sports, Wollongong is Alex’s hometown & home of our second event and with a genuine interest learning about supercross – he was perfect to be an ambassador,” said Bailey.

“As such, we’ll be giving Alex the keys to Australian Supercross and WIN Stadium for our event as a sign of respect, to recognise his UFC achievements and symbolising the beginning of a great relationship together.

“As an ambassador, and with the keys to the stadium in his pocket, Alex will have access-all-areas; the freedom to be behind the scenes. We’re excited get him close to the action when gates drop, to being amongst riders & teams in the pits, fans in the stands or trackside learning the ins-and-outs of our incredible sport.”

The 35-year-old UFC star, who lives in Wollongong, shared how pleased he was to take on the new ambassadorship role.

“I’m excited to join Australian Supercross Championship as an ambassador – when I saw the event coming to my hometown in Wollongong I had to be involved,” said Volkanovski. 

“There are many comparable elements between Supercross and MMA – these guys put their bodies on the line every time they race, push themselves in daunting situations, and must be extremely physically fit & mentally resilient to compete. 

“I’m not sure I’ll be jumping on a bike just yet – I’ve got a lot to learn – but am a big fan of the sport and can’t wait to watch these amazing riders go hard at WIN Stadium. 

“It’s an honour to get the keys to the stadium too – access all areas to learn more about supercross and get amongst the event. It’s nice to have the keys to something in Wollongong!”

Bailey has also been thrilled with the response to the NSW-based round, noting the excitement surrounding the event’s return to the vibrant city of Wollongong after a five-year hiatus.

“As expected, the Illawarra region and NSW fanbase have been incredibly forthcoming with their support of our Wollongong round,” said Bailey.

“Be it coming from local, inter-region or inter-state – we can’t wait to welcome our existing fans who have attended in the past and long supported the series, together with new fans, who are keen to see what the supercross hype is about.

“We have a variety of amazing experiences on offer, so fans have the option to elevate their night with a VIP package, hospitality or a range of fan experiences to ensure it’s an unforgettable event at WIN Stadium.”

Destination Wollongong’s General Manager, Mark Sleigh warmly welcomed the event to the region and urged travelling fans to explore what the city has on offer as a tourism destination.

“It’s a pleasure to welcome the Australian Supercross Championship back to Wollongong, and their talented riders and fans,” said Sleigh.

“This exciting event will have great economic benefits for our city drawing in tourists from across the nation. While visiting the region, we encourage fans to take time out to enjoy our diverse dining options, small bars, attractions, our beaches and rock pools, coastal cycleways or, take an invigorating stroll along the stunning Blue Mile, just down the road from WIN Stadium.”

Tickets for the Wollongong round will be on pre-sale on Tuesday 18 June, with the on-sale to begin on Friday 21 June 2024. Fans should head to www.australiansupercross.com.au to secure their tickets or for more information.— The Fox Australian Supercross Championship is proudly supported by the NSW Government through its tourism and major events agency, Destination NSW. —