HMD Motorsports is proud to announce a partnership with TJ Speed Motorsports to field a three-car lineup in the 2026 Castrol Toyota Formula Regional Oceania Trophy (CTFROT). Racing under the name HMD Motorsports with TJ Speed, this collaboration marks a pivotal step for both organizations as they aim to expand their presence in international open-wheel racing.
The New Zealand-based single-seater series has served as a critical development platform for many HMD-affiliated drivers, both past and present—including Josh Pierson, Liam Sceats, Tommy Smith, Callum Hedge, Bryce Aron, and Nikita Johnson—all of whom have progressed to race in INDY NXT. The championship has also contributed to the careers of drivers who have advanced to the NTT INDYCAR SERIES, including Louis Foster and Jacob Abel.
As an FIA-certified category, the Castrol Toyota Formula Regional Oceania Championship awards Super License points to select drivers based on their championship standing, creating a strong pathway for drivers’ progression within the sport.
“We are looking to strengthen the Castrol Toyota Formula Regional Oceania Championship grid in New Zealand by prioritizing a competitive driver lineup that represents HMD and TJ Speed,” explained HMD Motorsports Team President Mike Maurini. “With two strong, and growing programs, joining forces to compete abroad, we will be able to combine our efforts and help get some drivers that could potentially compete with us in 2025, with some additional track time.”
“TJ Speed is committed to playing a strong role in the progression of drivers into high levels of racing by utilizing our relationship with HMD Motorsports,” added owner of TJ Speed Motorsports Tim Neff. “We are sharing workspace in Brownsburg, and our collaboration will now continue around the world. Our goal is not just to go and race in New Zealand, but it is to compete and fight for race wins, podium results, and the championship.”
HMD Motorsports has demonstrated its strength with the largest driver lineup in the INDY NXT by Firestone paddock. With five podiums in the past five races, the team has firmly established itself as a top contender. TJ Speed, competing in USF Pro 2000, has also proven to be a front-runner, earning three wins this season with Ariel Elkin and strong performances from Sebastian Manson.
The two teams have already worked closely, with TJ Speed Motorsports serving as the official development program of HMD Motorsports, providing a pathway for drivers looking to advance from USF Pro 2000 to INDY NXT by Firestone. This partnership further strengthens their alignment and positions both organizations for continued success.