In a commanding performance at Taupo’s Bruce McLaren Motorsport Park, Ford’s Matthew Payne and Chaz Mostert secured victories in the opening races of the ITM Taupō Super 440. Their success highlighted significant struggles for Chevrolet teams, marking a decisive start to the Supercars event in New Zealand.
Supercars Taupo: Ford drivers lock out opening two podiums

Key Takeaways:
- Ford’s Matthew Payne and Chaz Mostert dominated the opening podiums.
- Chevrolet teams faced significant struggles in Taupo.
- The races took place at Bruce McLaren Motorsport Park in New Zealand.
- The event is part of the ITM Taupō Super 440 series.
- Teams like Grove Racing and Walkinshaw Andretti United featured prominently.
Ford’s Triumph in Taupo
The Supercars event at Taupo, New Zealand, saw Ford’s Mustang drivers Matthew Payne and Chaz Mostert claim the top positions in the opening races. Representing Grove Racing and Walkinshaw Andretti United respectively, Payne and Mostert showcased exceptional skill on the track at Bruce McLaren Motorsport Park.
Payne and Mostert Lead the Charge
Matthew Payne and Chaz Mostert, both piloting Ford Mustangs, delivered impressive performances that secured them the coveted podium spots. Their victories not only marked personal achievements but also underscored Ford’s strong presence in the competition.
Chevrolet’s Unsteady Start
While Ford celebrated success, Chevrolet teams grappled with unexpected challenges. The Chevrolet drivers struggled to keep pace with their Ford counterparts, highlighting a competitive gap that could influence the dynamics of the Supercars series moving forward.
Significance of the ITM Taupō Super 440
The races in Taupo form a critical part of the ITM Taupō Super 440 series. Early victories can set the tone for the season, and Ford’s strong start positions them favorably in the championship standings. The performance of Payne and Mostert could be a harbinger of continued success for Ford in upcoming events.
Venue Spotlight: Bruce McLaren Motorsport Park
Located in Taupo, the Bruce McLaren Motorsport Park is a renowned racing venue in New Zealand. Hosting the opening races of the series, the track provided a challenging yet rewarding environment for drivers. Its unique layout is known for testing the skills of even the most seasoned racers.
Looking Ahead
The outcomes in Taupo have set an exciting precedent for the rest of the Supercars season. As teams analyze their performances, the spotlight remains on whether Chevrolet can rebound from this setback and how Ford will maintain its momentum. Racing enthusiasts will undoubtedly watch closely as the competition unfolds.