Reigning GT World Challenge (GTWC) Australia powered by AWS Pro-Am champions Broc Feeney and Brad Schumacher have confirmed their return for the 2026 season, immediately setting the tone for a fierce title defence, with Melbourne Performance Centre. In 2026, they will pilot the Audi R8 LMS EVO II. Notably, they will carry the prestigious number one plate, a symbol of their triumph in 2025 and a target for the rest of the field.
A title won the hard way in 2025 sets the stage for 2026 GTWC Australia return for Feeney and Schumacher
Their 2025 championship victory came in dramatic fashion. The pair clinched the title during the final race at Hampton Downs, overtaking rivals Arise Racing by just four points. However, their success was no fluke.
Throughout the season, Feeney and Schumacher demonstrated exceptional consistency. In particular, they produced an extraordinary run of nine consecutive podium finishes, which ultimately laid the foundation for their championship win.
Moreover, their clean sweep of victories at the GT Festival Hampton Downs proved decisive, underlining their ability to deliver under pressure when it mattered most.
Schumacher’s historic achievement
Schumacher’s triumph marked a significant milestone in Australian GT racing history. With this title, he became the first driver to win all three primary classes in the series—adding the Pro-Am crown to his Trophy Class (2021) and Am Cup (2023) titles.
Since entering motorsport in 2017, Schumacher has steadily built his reputation. He progressed from state-level competition to national prominence, achieving notable success in events such as the Bathurst 12 Hour and the New South Wales Production Sports Car Championship.
Building momentum for 2026
As the new season approaches, both drivers remain focused on maintaining their upward trajectory. Schumacher emphasised the importance of consistency and a strong start.
“It’s great to come back and defend the title after taking the crown last year. It’s also fantastic to reunite with Broc Feeney. We had some strong results together, including a nine-podium streak, multiple pole positions and race wins,” Schumacher said.
“Throughout 2025, we continued to improve the Audi platform, and I feel like Broc really brings out the best in me as a driver. We’re confident we can build on that momentum and lift our performance even further heading into the 2026 championship.
“It’s a nice change to start the season at the top with the number one on the car – that’s pretty special. At the same time, last year showed that every result counts in GT World Challenge Australia. The championship came down to the final race in New Zealand, largely due to a DNF in the opening round at Phillip Island, which left us chasing for most of the year.”
“Our focus now is on starting the season strongly and maintaining consistency, rather than having to fight back. While there is a slight mentality shift going in as the hunted instead of the hunter, the goal remains the same – keep improving and perform at our best every weekend.
“This year’s calendar is fantastic. I’ve been competing in GT World Challenge Australia for a while and this is the strongest calendar we’ve had. It’s exciting to see the growth and support for GT3 racing in Australia, and I’m looking forward to seeing how the season unfolds.”
Feeney’s elite pedigree
Meanwhile, Feeney continues to establish himself as one of Australia’s top racing talents. Since debuting full-time in Supercars in 2022, he has amassed 28 race wins and 23 podiums, highlighting his elite performance level.
Before that, he secured the 2019 Super3 Series title and dominated the 2021 Super2 Series. In addition, Feeney has gained valuable international GT experience, competing across Asia and Europe while consistently delivering strong results.
Feeney also expressed enthusiasm about returning to the series after playing a key role in last year’s success.
“I’m really excited to be back racing GT again this year,” Feeney said. “I was a little undecided, but when we clinched the championship I was 100% in to come back and try and defend our title. I had a great time with Brad & the MPC team last year & am looking forward to building on what we finished last year.”
Looking ahead, the pair will begin their title defence at the LIQUI MOLY GT Festival Phillip Island from 27–29 March. With momentum, experience and proven chemistry on their side, Feeney and Schumacher enter the 2026 season as the benchmark in the Pro-Am field—and the team to beat.
