Porsche Michelin Junior Program Australia

Porsche Motorsport Australia has fielded one of Australia’s most successful junior programs for more than a decade, supporting the aspirations of young Australian and New Zealand racing talent and opening career pathways internationally – with proven results.

Supported by major partner, Michelin, the Porsche Michelin Junior Program encompassed young drivers from age 16 to 21 and both the Porsche Michelin Sprint Challenge Australia Series, and Porsche Carrera Cup Australia Championship.

The top junior at the end of each season receives Australia’s nomination to take part in the annual Porsche shootout, competing for a spot in the Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup.

Successful drivers in the past include Matt Campbell and Jaxon Evans, both of whom became factory Porsche drivers directly as a result of their participation in the program in Australia.

More recently, Harri Jones tackled the Porsche Supercup while 2025 Porsche Michelin Junior champion, Bayley Hall, claimed the title after a strong growth period where the Queenslander has matured to become one of the fastest drivers in the field – and a regular title contender.

Porsche Motorsport Australia’s Junior Program is more than just a pathway – it’s a holistic process designed to support drivers on and off the track.

A multiple-day camp at the start of the season has the field of Michelin Juniors – sometimes more than 20 drivers – participating in a series of physical exercises, mental preparation work, media training and experience and team building opportunities to prepare them for the season ahead.

Ongoing support, seminiars, physical evaluation and media experience occur throughout the season to continue their development while drivers compete in either Sprint Challenge or Carrera Cup.

The goal is that by the end of the season drivers are properly prepared for the next step in their career; whether that’s a next jump up the ladder of the Porsche Pyramid, or beyond.

Additionally, A dedicated driver mentor is also in place throughout the year to support drivers and offer their experience and guidance throughout the year.

An industry panel, selected by Porsche Motorsport Australia, will at the end of the year assess all participants, with the driver that best represents the broadest range of skills required to become a professional racing driver nominated as the Porsche Michelin Junior.

As part of their support of the program and both Carrera Cup and Sprint Challenge, the top three Porsche Michelin Juniors at each round will receive a free set of Michelin tyres as rewards for their efforts.

Australia’s Porsche Michelin Junior Program has been a benchmark in Australian motorsport for a decade and has been responsible for supporting the potential careers of more than one hundred young drivers from our corner of the world – and it’s long term future looks bright as more incredible drivers continue to use the Porsche Pyramid as their pathway to national or international motorsport success.

Porsche Sprint Challenge Ibérica: A Championship on the Rise, Eyes Set on an Ambitious 2026

The Porsche Sprint Challenge Ibérica has firmly established itself at its 2025 Grand Finale. The 2025 season marked a decisive step for the series, not only in sporting terms but also in its growing international visibility and cultural impact. With great audiences and a clear vision for the future, the championship now looks ahead to an even more ambitious 2026 season.

Building the Future: Women Academy and New Talent

One of the key elements of the Porsche Sprint Challenge Ibérica’s future strategy is talent development, with particular emphasis on diversity and inclusion. The Porsche Women Academy is expected to play an even stronger role in 2026, building on the foundations already laid in previous seasons.

More Than a Championship

Beyond sporting success, 2026 is expected to bring new announcements and strategic developments. These include expanded digital coverage, enhanced fan engagement experiences at circuits, and further integration with Porsche’s international motorsport ecosystem. While some details remain under wraps, the message from the organizers is clear: the Porsche Sprint Challenge Ibérica is not standing still.

Looking Ahead

With a growing audience and a strong sporting identity, the Porsche Sprint Challenge Ibérica enters 2026 with confidence and momentum. More than a racing series, it has become an environment that encourages new ideas, broad participation, and ongoing progress within the series, closely reflecting Porsche’s motorsport values. As engines fire up once again in Estoril next spring, one thing is certain: the road ahead for the Porsche Sprint Challenge Ibérica has never looked more exciting!