A Tactical Turnaround
Reigning Supercars champion Chaz Mostert has successfully recalibrated his 2026 title defense, transforming a precarious position near the Finals cut-line into a comfortable 228-point buffer. Following a challenging start to the season marked by a controversial clash in Christchurch and a DNF in Darwin, the Toyota GR Supra driver has executed a significant 251-point turnaround over the last two rounds in Townsville and Perth.
Mostert’s recent performance metrics underscore his current trajectory. Since the Christchurch event, only Matt Payne, Cam Waters, and Broc Feeney have outscored the Walkinshaw TWG driver. This surge has been critical in stabilizing his campaign, moving him from a 23-point deficit to a position of relative security within the top tier of the championship standings.
The Legacy of WR 028
While Mostert navigates the complexities of the new Toyota package, his 2025 title-winning Ford Mustang, chassis WR 028, has returned to the public eye. Reunited with the vehicle during the BP Adelaide Grand Final event launch, Mostert reflected on the car that defined his previous championship run. The Mustang, which played a pivotal role in the inaugural Supercars Finals Series, has since been acquired by a private collector in Queensland.
Mostert noted the unique, low-key nature of the car’s current retirement, stored in a modest shed near his childhood home. The vehicle remains in its post-race condition, complete with original tires and even remnants of celebratory confetti from the 2025 Grand Final, serving as a tangible link to his recent success.
Stakes of the Second Title
Despite his recent progress, Mostert remains cautious regarding the remainder of the 2026 season. Adapting to the GR Supra has required intensive development, with both Mostert and teammate Ryan Wood scheduled for further engine testing at The Bend Motorsport Park. Mostert has publicly acknowledged that defending a title presents a unique set of challenges compared to the initial pursuit.
“Obviously it was great to win one, but they always say winning your second one is twice as hard,” Mostert stated. As the competition among the top 10 intensifies, the margin for error continues to shrink. With the championship hunt entering its critical phase, the focus for the Walkinshaw team remains on consistent performance and technical refinement of the new platform.