Mount Gambier’s Allen seals stunning Finals spot

Mount Gambier’s rising Supercars talent Kai Allen has clinched a Finals berth in sensational style after finishing sixth in a chaotic Sandown 500 on Sunday.

In just his rookie season, Allen secured the fourth and final spot in the championship’s Grand Final, edging out teammate Matt Payne following a dramatic race filled with penalties, pit stop dramas and a wild mix of weather.

The pivotal moment came when Payne sustained steering damage during a costly clash with Cam Waters. As Payne limped home six laps down in 22nd, Allen kept his nose clean and stayed consistently inside the top 10, eventually climbing to a decisive sixth place.

That result launched him ahead of Payne in the standings, completing a fairytale run to the final four. Allen now joins Broc Feeney, Chaz Mostert and Will Brown in the Adelaide finale, where 300 points remain on offer.

Feeney won the Sandown 500 after reclaiming the lead from Anton De Pasquale, who finished second. Brown completed the podium after a storming drive from 17th on the grid. Mostert and Brodie Kostecki rounded out the top five.

Allen’s Finals charge was a product of consistency and strategy, with Grove Racing taking full advantage of the unfolding chaos. While several big names faltered under pressure, the Mount Gambier driver delivered a composed drive in challenging conditions.

The Adelaide 500 finale later this month will see Feeney start with 5050 points, Mostert on 5030, Brown on 5015 and Allen just behind on 5000.

For the Mount Gambier community, Allen’s finals debut marks a significant milestone for local motorsport and adds extra excitement heading into the final event of the Supercars season.

Full race results and standings are available at supercars.com.