Jim Richards receives Australia Day Honours

MotorSport New Zealand warmly congratulates legendary driver Jim Richards following his appointment as an Honorary Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the General Division as part of the 2026 Australia Day Honours, recognising his “significant service to motor sports.”

Widely regarded as one of the greatest drivers New Zealand has ever produced, Richards’ extraordinary career spans more than five decades at the highest level of international and domestic motorsport.

Born in New Zealand and a proud representative of Kiwi motorsport on the world stage, Richards built an unmatched record of success across touring cars, endurance racing and international competition. His achievements include seven Bathurst 1000 victories, multiple Australian Touring Car Championship titles, and a celebrated career in both Australia and overseas.

Richards’ influence on New Zealand motorsport is equally profound. He is an inaugural inductee into the MotorSport New Zealand Wall of Fame, recognising not only his competitive achievements but also his lasting contribution to the sport’s growth, profile and professionalism.

MotorSport New Zealand President Deborah Day said Richards’ honour was richly deserved.

“Jim Richards is a true icon of motorsport, and his appointment as a Member of the Order of Australia is a fitting recognition of a remarkable career and lifelong service to our sport,” said Day.

“He has been an outstanding ambassador for New Zealand on the international stage, and his induction as an inaugural member of our Wall of Fame reflects the immense respect he commands across our motorsport community.”

Beyond his on-track success, Richards is widely admired for his sportsmanship, integrity and commitment to mentoring the next generation of drivers, leaving a legacy that continues to shape the sport on both sides of the Tasman.