Rolling to Victory: Chiko Roll’s Triumphant Return to Bathurst 1000

Chiko Roll made a roaring return to the motorsport scene at the 2024 Repco Bathurst 1000, and it couldn't have been more legendary. After 24 years away, the iconic Aussie snack rolled its way back into the hearts of racing fans with a record-breaking win and a weekend packed with excitement. From thrilling fan competitions to Brodie Kostecki and Todd Hazelwood’s unforgettable victory, Chiko’s comeback wasn’t just on the car—it was everywhere. This is the story of how an iconic snack fueled the fastest Bathurst 1000 in history. 

The iconic connection between Chiko and motorsport runs deep, with its presence on the track representing a blend of Australian tradition and love for racing. In the run up to the event, we gave our passionate Chiko Roll fans the opportunity to win a trip to the event, including a car ride, VIP behind the scenes tour, flights and accommodation. The fans wowed us with their legendary entries including dressing up as a Chiko Roll and writing poetry expressing their dedication to the Aussie snack. 

The lead up to the race at Bathurst was electric. Drivers Brodie Kostecki and Todd Hazelwood held a signing session at a local IGA, treating the locals and superfans to their autographs on Chiko Bucket hats, with over 100 fans queuing for an opportunity to meet their heroes and Chiko Rolls selling out! Brodie Kostecki said, "It’s really cool to have such a legendary brand like Chiko on the car for Bathurst. It’s a race with so much history, and to be driving with the Chiko livery is a nod to the past that’s pretty special. Todd and I are ready to make it one to remember." 

Todd Hazelwood added, “Bathurst isn’t just home to the great race; it’s also home to the Chiko Roll. To see Chiko return to the Mountain feels like a homecoming for both the brand and the fans. Brodie and I are honored to carry such a legendary part of Aussie culture into this year’s race, and we’re ready to give it everything we’ve got.” 

The next day marked the exciting reveal of the livery. Erebus Motorsport as CEO Barry Ryan commented “Having worked on the McLeod/Wakefield Chiko car, it’s fantastic to see Chiko back at Bathurst, this time with Erebus. The brand is part of our motorsport culture, and we’re thrilled to bring it back to the Mountain.” 

As the weekend kicked off, the smell of Chiko Rolls was in the air. Our on-site activation allowed fans to win a Chiko branded bucket hat, stubby holder, air freshener or socks which quickly became the hot commodity trackside. We gave away over 2000 pieces of merchandise over the weekend. Even more impressive is that over 6,500 Chiko Rolls were devoured by racing fans, with over 480 sold during 1-2pm – that’s 8 per minute!  

Roll on race day. Kostecki’s time of five hours, 58 minutes and 3 seconds proved to be the first time the Bathurst 1000 has been won in under six hours. Supercars commentator and former motorsport racer Neil Crompton said Kostecki had a "very speedy, strong day", and described his win as a "fairytale". “We are going to fill the trophy with Chiko Rolls!” joked Hazelwood. 

With media coverage spanning Sunrise, Herald Sun and V8 Sleuth, it’s safe to say that the return of Chiko Roll to the Bathurst 1000 has proven to be an epic success, blending nostalgia, high speed success and Aussie culture. With record-breaking performances on the track and unforgettable moments off it, this partnership has not only reignited the brand's legacy in motorsport but also fueled the passion of fans old and new. As the dust settles on the Mountain, one thing is clear – Chiko Roll has rolled its way back into the heart of Australian racing, leaving a lasting legacy at Bathurst. Here's to more iconic moments in the future!