Formula Racing NZ (FRNZ) has received a major boost with an invitation to run at two of the country’s premier summer motorsport events:
- NexGen Taupo Historic Grand Prix: 16-18 January 2026
- NextGen 70th New Zealand Grand Prix at Highlands: 30 January -1 February 2026
These meetings sit alongside New Zealand’s most high-profile open wheel championship, CTFROC, featuring top domestic and international drivers and teams.
The invitation also presents a unique opportunity to showcase the evolution of Toyota Racing Series (TRS) machinery, with the much-loved FT40s and FT50s running on the track alongside the Atlantic/Pacific cars, in conjunction with the CTFROC grids of current FT60 race cars.
Running these generations of TRS-based race cars at the same meeting will highlight more than a decade of technical development and underscore the platform’s enduring quality.
“It also represents one of the most exciting opportunities FRNZ has had to showcase our drivers, our machinery and our growing class in front of a national and international audience,” say the FRNZ organisers.
“While this is our first year of being included, we believe that a strong FRNZ presence will build momentum, visibility, and long-term credibility of the category, as the foundation for deeper involvement in future major events.”
Event organisers are enthusiastic about building strong FRNZ fields for both meetings and are keen to see as many of these iconic single-seaters on the grid as possible. The presence of multiple generations of TRS cars is expected to be a major drawcard for fans, providing close, competitive racing while celebrating New Zealand’s rich open-wheel heritage.
To support this initiative, Toyota Gazoo Racing New Zealand, which owns several former TRS cars, has put together a lease deal to make participation more accessible.
This initiative is designed to encourage appropriately qualified competitors and teams to participate in these high-profile events, reducing barriers to entry while ensuring the cars are seen and raced as intended. The FRNZ organisers also confirm that several other FT50 and FT40 cars are available for lease.
“While all arrangements are subject to certain Ts and Cs, we would be very keen to hear from competitors wanting to be part of these prestigious events,” say the FRNZ organisers
Formula Racing New Zealand sees the Taupō and Highlands meetings as a significant platform for the category, offering national exposure, top-tier circuits, and the chance to race alongside some of the country’s leading motorsport classes.
Drivers, teams, and owners of FT40 and FT50 cars are encouraged to register their interest early, as grid numbers are expected to be strong. With two marquee events, legendary circuits, and a celebration of TRS history, January promises to be a standout moment for Formula Racing in New Zealand.
Header Image: Supplied
