Applications closing soon for 2026 Elite Motorsport Academy of New Zealand

Aspiring young motorsport competitors are being reminded that applications for the 2026 Elite Motorsport Academy of New Zealand close in just two weeks.

The Elite Motorsport Academy is MotorSport New Zealand’s premier development programme, designed to identify and support the country’s most promising young competitors across all motorsport disciplines. The Academy focuses on building the skills required to succeed at the highest levels of the sport, both on and off the track.

Selected athletes will take part in an intensive development programme covering areas such as driving performance, physical fitness, media and communications, sponsorship and personal brand development, and mental performance. Participants also benefit from mentorship and guidance from leading figures within New Zealand motorsport.

The Academy kicks off with a week-long camp at the Otago Academy of Sport in Dunedin, followed by a tailored 12-month follow up program for all participants.

Since its establishment, the Academy has helped develop many of New Zealand’s top motorsport talents, providing them with the tools, knowledge, and support required to progress their careers. It’s list of graduates reads the “who’s who” of motorsport; Shane van Gisbergen, Brendon Hartley, Marcus Armstrong, Nick Cassidy, Hayden Paddon, Mitch Evans, and so many more.

MotorSport New Zealand encourages competitors from across the country and across all disciplines of the sport to apply. Applications are open to emerging competitors who demonstrate strong performance, commitment, and potential to represent New Zealand motorsport at the highest level.

Applications close in two weeks on 23 March, and interested competitors are encouraged to submit their applications as soon as possible. Applications can be submitted at: https://motorsport.org.nz/elite-motorsport-academy/applications/