New focus for Jack Stokes in 2026
Jack Stokes heads into the 2026 Brian Green Property Group New Zealand Rally Championship with a new car and a new focus.
He turned heads at Otago last year, leading throughout the opening day in his Ford AP4 before eventually succumbing late in the event.
That speed set the tone for his campaign – his outright speed able to match it with anyone in the championship and good enough to carry the Canterbury youngster to a top five finish in the standings.
He will pilot a Skoda Fabia Rally 2 car in 2026 – the same car brother Robbie Stokes and last year’s champion Ben Hunt competed in and arguably the best machinery money can buy.
“I’m really looking forward to the 2026 season,” Stokes said. “It’s a great calendar with a mix of events I know well and a couple that will be new to me, which should make things pretty exciting.
“The new car has been really positive so far. We’ve spent some time going through the key mechanical components to make sure everything is in top condition heading into the season.
“We’ve only done a short systems test at this stage, but we’ll get our first proper gravel running at the Popotunoa Sprint which I’m really looking forward to.”
Stokes should find himself one of the favourites to capture the 2026 crown, alongside older brother Robbie, who was runner-up last season.
That inter-team battle is going to be one to watch. The brothers are naturally close, and the team has worked really well together for the greater good.
A rivalry has never really been something to come to light between the pair, but when it could see a head-to-head battle for a maiden championship, that relationship and team dynamic could be tested.
“I think it will be great fun,” Stokes said. “I wouldn’t really call it a rivalry — we work closely together before events and during rallies, so it’s more about pushing each other to be better.
“As a team, we’ll be doing everything we can to support each other and get the most out of the car. There are a lot of very quick drivers in the championship this year, so the goal will be to put together strong, consistent performances and see where that puts us.”
The season begins next month with the Central Machine Hire Otago Rally from April 10-12.
Tweet
