JP Drake will take a major step in his racing career when he debuts in 2026 GT World Challenge (GTWC) Australia powered by AWS at the upcoming LIQUI MOLY GT Festival The Bend. After impressing in Monochrome GT4 Australia last year, the South Australian now transitions into GT3 machinery for the first time.
Drake will partner long-time mentor Garnet Patterson in the Team BRM Audi R8 LMS EVO II, competing in the highly competitive Pro-Am class. As a result, the move marks a significant progression for the rising talent as he continues to build on a strong national racing résumé.
Steady rise through the ranks
Drake’s journey to GT3 competition has been both measured and successful. Over the past decade, he has gained experience across multiple categories, including the Australian Prototype Series, Australian Formula 4 and Radical Cup Australia.
Notably, he secured back-to-back Australian Prototype Series titles in 2022 and 2023, underlining his capability as a consistent front-runner. Furthermore, his one-off appearance in Monochrome GT4 Australia at Shell V-Power Motorsport Park last year proved pivotal. Driving a McLaren Artura GT4 alongside Loclan Hennock, Drake delivered solid class finishes that ultimately inspired his move into GT3 racing.
Confidence fuelled by GT4 experience
That GT4 outing played a crucial role in shaping Drake’s confidence ahead of his debut at the next level. He now approaches the challenge with both excitement and realistic expectations.
“I’m absolutely stoked to be making my GT World Challenge Australia powered by AWS debut at The Bend. It’s something I’ve been looking at for a long time, but now that the opportunity’s come up, I’m just pumped to be part of it,” Drake said.
“Running in Monochrome GT4 Australia really gave me the confidence to take this step. I went in thinking it would be a completely different style of car and driving to what I’m used to, but the fundamentals are very similar and that gave me the belief that I can be competitive.”
Mentor partnership key to transition
A defining aspect of Drake’s debut is his continued partnership with Garnet Patterson. Having worked closely together for years, the established relationship provides stability as Drake adapts to a new category.
“Having Garnet alongside me is a huge boost. He’s been a big part of my journey so far, and having that continuity as I step into something new is really important. It’s great to have someone in your corner who understands how you work and can help guide you through those early stages.”
Drake also expressed confidence in his new team environment.
“I also think joining Team BRM is a fantastic opportunity. They’ve got a strong history and a really experienced lineup, so there’s a lot to learn. I was lucky enough to get some laps in the Audi earlier, which ultimately gave me the confidence to commit to this program.”
Measured expectations for debut
While Drake remains ambitious, he acknowledges the scale of the challenge ahead. The transition to GT3 brings new complexities, including pit stop procedures and driver changes, which he aims to master over time.
“While I am someone who always wants to win, I know this is a big step and there’s a lot to learn – from the car itself to race procedures like pit stops and driver changes, so I am realistic in my expectations.”
“More than anything, I’m just really looking forward to the challenge. It’s a fantastic category, and this feels like the right place for me to keep developing, especially with an eye on doing more GT racing in the future.”
Patterson backs Drake’s potential
Patterson, an experienced international GT and endurance racer, shares confidence in Drake’s ability to adapt quickly. As both mentor and co-driver, he expects a progressive weekend as they familiarise themselves with the car and build rhythm.
“It’s really exciting to be joining JP as he makes the move into GT3 competition – especially since I’ve worked closely with him for a number of years in a coaching capacity during his time in prototypes, where he’s achieved some strong results,” Patterson said.
“With the car arriving close to the event, it means preparation has been a little compressed, so we’ll be using the early part of the event to get comfortable with the package and build our rhythm. There’s always a learning curve with a new car, especially in a category as competitive as this.”
Importantly, familiarity with the venue could prove advantageous.
“Fortunately, we’re heading to a circuit we both know well, which will definitely help fast-track that process. Familiarity with the track allows us to focus more on understanding the car and refining our approach across the weekend.”
“I’m confident JP will come up to speed quickly. He’s shown he can adapt well, and once he settles in, I think we’ll be in a good position to build pace and consistency together.”
All eyes on The Bend debut
As the LIQUI MOLY GT Festival The Bend approaches, anticipation continues to build around Drake’s debut. With a proven mentor alongside him and a strong team behind him, the South Australian enters the weekend eager to learn, develop and make his mark in GT3 competition.
Ultimately, this debut represents not just a new chapter, but a clear step towards a broader future in GT racing.
