Ugo Ugochukwu continued to cement his status as the benchmark of the 2026 Castrol Toyota Formula Regional Oceania Trophy (CTFROT) by offering a composed and insightful assessment of his season so far on Saturday at Taupo. Leading the championship after another productive start to the weekend at Taupo, the M2 Competition driver reflected on how consistency, opportunity and restraint have combined to deliver an unexpectedly strong start.
An opening phase beyond expectations
When asked about his early championship form, Ugochukwu admitted that even he did not foresee such a dominant beginning. From the opening round at Hampton Downs, the foundations were built through outright pace, but crucially through execution when it mattered most.
“Yeah, definitely not. It’s been a really perfect start. Starting in Hamptons [Down], the pace was really good throughout the whole weekend, so it was just about putting it together. Yeah, we were fast the whole way and managed to pick up a lot of points there.”
That momentum carried seamlessly into Taupo, where Ugochukwu continued to maximise results despite facing tougher starting positions and unpredictable race scenarios.
“And it’s been a really good two races here as well. Yeah, today definitely was not expecting to be in the podium in Race 2, starting from P7. But yeah, managed to get quite a bit of a lucky T1, T2. I was in a really good position there and managed to make up the places. And then from there, the race pace was really good and managed to get onto the podium.”
However, even during a near-flawless run, Ugochukwu remained realistic about the small compromises that inevitably arise during a congested race weekend.
“So yeah, it’s been a really good start. Only downside has been not being able to get a good lap in that race for starting position for Race 3, just because I was so much in the traffic. But yeah, I’m not too worried. I think we’re in a good position and I think we can have a really good race in race four.”
Measured mindset underpins on-track execution
Despite his calm demeanour away from the circuit, Ugochukwu explained that his approach behind the wheel adapts to context rather than emotion. With a healthy points advantage, he has focused on smart decision-making rather than forcing the issue.
“I think it depends on the situation, on the race. I think, of course, we’re in a position where we don’t have to do anything too crazy. I think just get the points when they’re there, get the points when they come easy. But yeah, other than that, I try not to take too much risk and just bring home the points.”
This philosophy has allowed him to build a commanding lead while avoiding unnecessary drama in a tightly contested field.
Enjoying the challenge of fine margins
Beyond results, Ugochukwu highlighted the competitive depth of the championship as one of its most rewarding aspects. With qualifying sessions often decided by fractions of a second, precision has become non-negotiable.
“Well, I think overall it’s been really close. I think especially in the Qualies, small mistakes can have a big consequence, let’s say. So yeah, I’m sure it’s going to be really close again tomorrow in the Quali for the future race. So yeah, we try to be as honest as possible and try to put the whole lap together.”
Such fine margins, he suggested, continue to demand focus and discipline as the field converges on pace.
Satisfied, but far from complacent
Finally, Ugochukwu confirmed that he feels content with his current position, while remaining fully aware of the work still required as the season reaches its midpoint.
“Yeah, definitely. I think it’s been pretty much the dream start. And we’re going to try to just keep it going this way. Of course, there’s a long way to go. I think we’re getting to the halfway mark of the championship right now. So yeah, I think we just got to keep doing what we’re doing. Yeah, keep scoring points and we’ll see where we end up at the end.”
Ultimately, Ugochukwu’s comments reflected maturity beyond his years. With consistency, calmness and clarity guiding his campaign, he remains firmly in control as the 2026 CTFROT title fight intensifies.
