The Quinn Group is pleased to announce it has purchased the GT New Zealand Championship from its current owner, Grant Smith.
The championship will be overseen by CEO Josie Spillane, with further announcements regarding the management team and operational structure to be made in June.
The sale will take effect from 1 June, following the conclusion of the 2025/26 GT New Zealand Championship season at the Repco Supercars Championship round in Christchurch in April.
Further details regarding the future direction of the championship, including regulations, eligibility criteria, and calendar opportunities, will be announced in due course.
“Grant has worked incredibly hard over a long period to grow and develop the GT New Zealand Championship, and his efforts have been instrumental in building a great base for the series. We sincerely thank him and his team for their commitment and contribution,” said Josie Spillane, CEO of the Quinn Group.
“This is the first time category management rights have been sold in NZ in a very long time, and I think it speaks volumes to not only the calibre of the category, but the professional culture that is permeating through Motorsport in NZ currently at our Championship level.
“We are proud to take on the role of custodians of national GT racing in New Zealand and do so with great respect for the foundations that Grant and his team have established. Our aim is to build on that platform and continue to grow the championship into the future.
“There is a large ecosystem in Motorsport at this level, from manufacturers who support our sport, Race Teams that rely on strong fields to pay their staff, who in turn pay their mortgages. A strong GT Championship is vitally important to the top tier of New Zealand motorsport, to Motorsport New Zealand, to the Repco NextGen NZ Championship events, and to circuits across the country.
“The global growth of GT4 racing, combined with our strong relationships with key brands – including and especially Porsche Motorsport New Zealand, along with all manufacturers involved – provides a solid base to build something exciting. TQ brings extensive experience in GT racing, both as a promoter through Australian GT and as a competitor, and I’m looking forward to working closely with key stakeholders to create something truly special for the 2026/27 season.
“GT racing has a proud heritage in New Zealand and continues to deliver fantastic competition. Our plan is to support existing competitors, encourage those with cars sitting in sheds to get back on track, and continue to grow the grid. It’s an exciting project, and we are delighted to have the support of Tony, Motorsport New Zealand and our wider team as we move forward.”
Header Image: Tayler Burke
