Toyota Gazoo Racing New Zealand (TGRNZ) has officially launched the tender process for teams ahead of a major transition in its premier single-seater championship. As the series prepares to introduce a new generation Formula Regional car in 2027, TGRNZ aim to secure a strong and stable grid that reflects the growing stature of the Castrol Toyota FR Oceania Trophy (CTFROT). The move signals a clear intent to build on recent success while embracing the next phase of technical and sporting development.
Tender process signals new era
With the introduction of the Gen 2 Formula Regional car set for January 2027, TGRNZ has opened applications for both existing teams and potential new entrants. This process will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the championship, ensuring that it continues to attract high-quality teams from across the global motorsport landscape.
Importantly, the organisation aims to draw interest from leading junior formula teams competing in Oceania, Europe, Asia, and the United States. By doing so, it seeks to further elevate the competitiveness and reputation of one of the strongest Formula Regional championships in the world.
TGRNZ places focus on stability and growth ahead of Gen 2 CTFROT era
TGRNZ places significant emphasis on long-term stability as part of this transition. Multi-year agreements with teams form a central pillar of the strategy, offering both operational consistency and a clear pathway for sustained development.
“Multi-year agreements with teams will provide series and grid stability and ensure all aspects of the championship operational processes achieve FIA Regional Formula standards and beyond and also provide teams with medium to long-term certainty,” explained TGRNZ Motorsport Manager Nicolas Caillol.
At the same time, the introduction of the new car presents a natural decision point for teams currently involved in the series.
“The new car represents a significant moment when the teams can evaluate the package and remain or become involved, or indeed step away and focus on other motorsport projects.
“We believe our 2026 roster of teams is one of the strongest ever assembled for a New Zealand-based championship and it would be fantastic to see that maintained or indeed enhanced.
“Our championship provides not only a professional and development-focused environment for emerging racing drivers within Oceania and the international single-seater pathway, it also offers exactly the same benefits for teams.”
The current grid already reflects a healthy and competitive environment. In 2026, two new teams—Hitech and TJ Speed—joined established outfits such as M2 Competition, mtec Motorsport, Kiwi Motorsport, and Giles Motorsport. This blend of experienced teams and fresh entrants has contributed to one of the most competitive seasons in recent memory.
Consequently, TGRNZ aims not only to retain this strength but also to build upon it as the championship evolves.
TGRNZ takes technical step forward with Gen 2 car as CTFROT aims to evolve
Alongside structural changes, the series will undergo a significant technical upgrade. With backing from Toyota Gazoo Racing Global Motorsport, TGRNZ will introduce the new Gen 2 Formula Regional chassis for the 2027 season.
The championship will continue its long-standing partnership with Italian manufacturer Tatuus, which will supply the chassis. The new car will be based on the FIA Formula Regional Gen 2 T-326 platform, already in use in the Formula Regional European Championship.
At the same time, continuity remains a key element. The series will retain an evolved version of the proven 2.0-litre turbocharged 8AR-FTS engine, ensuring reliability while delivering improved performance. This combination of innovation and familiarity reflects TGRNZ’s broader philosophy of developing people, performance, and technology through motorsport.
Building the future grid
As TGRNZ prepares for its next chapter, the tender process represents more than just team selection—it defines the future direction of the championship. By combining a new generation car with a carefully curated grid, the organisation aims to strengthen its position within the global junior single-seater pathway.
Ultimately, with a clear vision, strong technical foundations, and growing international appeal, the Castrol Toyota FR Oceania Trophy looks set to enter its Gen 2 era with renewed momentum and ambition.
