MotorSport New Zealand announces that applications are now open for the 2026 Elite MotorSport Academy of New Zealand, a world-renowned motorsport development programme for emerging talent.
Each year, the Academy helps New Zealand’s most promising young competitors gain the skills and mindset needed to succeed on both national and international stages. Aspiring drivers and competitors from across all disciplines, including Race, Rally, ClubSport, and KartSport, are invited to apply.
Since its inception, the Academy has produced more than 160 graduates, many of whom have gone on to achieve global success.
Alumni include world-class names such as Shane van Gisbergen, Ryan Wood, Hayden Paddon, Brendon Hartley, Earl Bamber, Nick Cassidy, Mitch Evans, Andre Heimgartner, and Marcus Armstrong.
More recent graduates, including Indy NXT driver Callum Hedge, New Zealand Grand Prix champion Liam Sceats, and Supercars driver Ryan Wood, continue to carry the Academy’s legacy of excellence.
Each has benefited from the Academy’s specialised 12-month development programme, beginning with an intensive week-long camp hosted at the Otago Academy of Sport in Dunedin.
Throughout the camp, participants take part in workshops and activities covering every facet of elite motorsport performance, from fitness, nutrition, and sport psychology to data analysis, media presentation, sponsorship, and motorsport regulations.
Team-building challenges and daily physical training create a truly immersive and high-performance environment.
A key component of the week includes developing and presenting a sponsorship proposal, a vital skill for building a sustainable career in motorsport.
Following the camp, each participant continues with a personalised 12-month development programme supported by the Academy’s expert providers.
MotorSport New Zealand President and Scholarship Trust trustee Deborah Day says the Academy remains a cornerstone of the sport’s development pathway.
“The Elite MotorSport Academy continues to be an exceptional platform for young competitors to refine their skills and prepare for the next level,” said Day.
“New Zealand has an extraordinary depth of talent, and this programme gives our rising stars the knowledge, discipline, and confidence to perform on the world stage. I strongly encourage all eligible competitors to apply and make the most of this opportunity.”
The 2026 Elite MotorSport Academy camp will be held in Dunedin from 5–11 July 2026, with applications closing on 9 March 2026.
For full details and applications, visit motorsport.org.nz/elite-motorsport-academy.
Header Image: Supplied
