Protest received after Newcastle opener

A protest has been received over the Race 1 results in Newcastle, a Motorsport Australia spokesperson has confirmed to Supercars.com.

In the first ever race of the Gen3 era, Shane van Gisbergen led a Red Bull Ampol Racing one-two at the Thrifty Newcastle 500.

Van Gisbergen finished 14.7s clear of teammate Broc Feeney, with Tickford Racing driver Cam Waters third.

Motorsport Australia later confirmed protests were received from Tickford against both Red Bull Ampol Racing cars.

A Walkinshaw Andretti United protest against van Gisbergen's car was also received.

A hearing was later held and has now concluded, with stewards now deliberating. 

If a protest is successful, the result may be altered. The decision will be handed down tomorrow morning.

"Motorsport Australia can confirm protests were received from Tickford Racing against cars 88 and 97, and Walkinshaw Andretti United against 97," a Motorsport Australia statement reads.

"The Deputy Race Directors also alleged a technical breach of C16.2 regarding the Driver Cooling System on cars 88 and 97.

"A Stewards Hearing has now concluded, with Stewards now deliberating. A decision will be handed down tomorrow morning."

Cars will return to the track on Sunday for ARMOR ALL Qualifying at 11:15am local time.

The Top Ten Shootout (12:35pm) will set the grid for the 95-lap Race 2, which is scheduled to commence at 3:20pm.