Matt Stone Racing is excited to confirm that rising star Zach Bates will make his full-time debut in the Supercars Championship in 2026, driving the Bendix Racing Camaro.
The highly-rated young driver will graduate to the main game after impressing in the Super2 Series, continuing MSR’s proud tradition of developing emerging talent into Supercars regulars.
Bates, one of the most exciting prospects in Australian motorsport, joins MSR at a pivotal time as the team continues its rise up the Supercars ranks.
The Canberra-born driver’s promotion marks the next chapter in his rapidly ascending career, as he takes the reins of the Bendix-backed Camaro for his rookie season.
It comes after a successful wildcard campaign this year in the Supercheap Auto entry.
“I’m absolutely thrilled to be joining Matt Stone Racing and stepping up to the Supercars Championship full-time next year,” Bates said.
“This is a dream come true. MSR has a great track record with young drivers, and the opportunity to represent Bendix Racing in my rookie season is really special.
“I can’t wait to get stuck in and learn as much as I can from the team.”
Team owner Matt Stone said Bates’ signing reflects MSR’s ongoing commitment to fostering future Supercars stars.
“Zach is an exceptional young talent and we’ve been watching his progress closely,” Stone said.
“He’s shown maturity, speed and a great attitude—everything we look for in a driver. We’re excited to give him his shot in the Bendix Racing Camaro and continue developing the next generation of Supercars drivers.”
Bendix CEO, George Kyriakopoulos said: “the team is entering the 2026 season with confidence as it welcomes Zach Bates to Bendix Racing.
“We are thrilled to have Zach Bates driving for the Bendix Racing Team.
“Nick put the Bendix team on the map with some high profile wins and we are looking forward to seeing Zach on the podium”
Bates’ arrival locks in MSR’s 2026 driving line-up, following the recent confirmation that Jack Le Brocq will return to the team in the #4 Camaro.
Further details on the team’s 2026 program will be announced in the coming months.
