The Tony Quinn Foundation (TQF) is continuing its investment in the next generation of New Zealand motorsport, with applications now open for its new Junior Development Fund ahead of the 2026/27 NextGen NZ Championship.
The fund will provide $2,000 sponsorship packages directly to eligible young competitors, helping with some of the costs that come with racing at a national level.
Drivers aged 21 or under as of 1 January 2027 are eligible to apply if they are competing in the SP Tools TA2 New Zealand Championship, the Summerset GT New Zealand Championship, the NZ Porsche Racing Championship or the Nexen Tyres Mazda Racing Super Series, provided their category is contesting at least four rounds of the NextGen NZ Championship.
The Junior Development Fund continues TQF’s long-standing support of young Kiwi talent, which has been an important part of the more than $3 million the Foundation has invested in New Zealand motorsport since it was established in 2021.
That support was on show most recently at Hampton Downs, where 14-year-old Miles Baker earned a $54,000 support package through the annual TQF GR86 Shootout, and fellow finalist Nieko Scoles was awarded $20,000 towards his 2026/27 Bridgestone GR86 Championship campaign.
Tony Quinn Foundation Trustee and NextGen NZ Championship CEO Josie Spillane says the Junior Development Fund will complement the work already being done across TQF and the wider group, including the circuits.
“We know how hard it can be for young drivers to find the money to stay in motorsport, so the TQF Junior Development Fund gives us another way to help those already out there competing,” says Spillane.
“Motorsport is a big ecosystem, and it works best when we all swim in the same direction. The circuits, the categories, the teams, the competitors and the volunteers all play a part. We want our contribution to support the pathways and funds already in place, so every dollar goes as far as it can.
“For these young drivers, reaching the national stage is a big step. They’ve worked their way up through the grades, and the costs climb at every level: travel, team fees, entry fees, tyres, fuel, insurance. The list goes on. We’re proud to be investing in the future stars of the sport and helping them show what they can do in the NextGen NZ Championship.”
One of those existing pathways is the Young Gun Membership, available across Hampton Downs, Taupō International Motorsport Park and Highlands Motorsport Park.
For $2,550 plus GST a year, Young Gun members can access up to 80 track sessions and track days across the three circuits, and become part of a community of experienced members and key figures in New Zealand motorsport.
Drivers can also work with experienced coaches through the Hampton Downs NZ Racing Academy, with one-on-one tuition in areas such as driving technique and racecraft.
While the Young Gun Membership and the Racing Academy build experience on the circuit, TQF’s investment in young drivers also reaches beyond motorsport.
Through Tony Quinn Foundation Road Safety, TQF has committed $750,000 over three years to Street Smart and its work with young and inexperienced drivers across New Zealand. The practical programme lets participants learn how their vehicle responds in a controlled
environment, building the awareness and skills to handle situations they may face on the road.
It is all part of a wider commitment to helping the next generation learn and develop behind the wheel. The Junior Development Fund now extends that support to more young racers making their way through New Zealand motorsport, while TQF’s broader work is helping to lift the skills of Kiwi drivers both on the track and on our roads.
View TQF Junior Development Fund Application Form.
Header Image: Supplied
