Volante Rosso has officially confirmed a two-car entry for the 2026 GT World Challenge (GTWC) Australia powered by AWS) season. This expansion reflects the team’s growing ambition, as it strengthens both its driver roster and technical programme.
Importantly, the team will continue running the proven Aston Martin Vantage AMR GT3 while introducing a new McLaren 720S GT3 EVO. Consequently, Volante Rosso positions itself to compete across multiple classes with a balanced blend of youth and experience.
Volante Rosso signals competitive intent with two-car GTWC Australia entry for 2026
Volante Rosso has placed team owner Josh Hunt alongside seasoned GT racer Geoff Emery in the McLaren entry. Together, they will compete in the Pro-Am class, where consistency and race craft often prove decisive.
Notably, this pairing combines Hunt’s international exposure with Emery’s extensive domestic success. Therefore, the duo could emerge as a serious contender as the season develops.
Meanwhile, the Aston Martin entry will feature Alex Gardner and Lee Stibbs in the Trophy Class. While this pairing leans towards development, both drivers bring proven pace from other categories.
As a result, the team can simultaneously chase results in Pro-Am while nurturing emerging talent in Trophy.
Geoff Emery: A proven GT performer returns to GTWC Australia for 2026 with Volante Rosso
Geoff Emery returns to GTWC as one of Australia’s most accomplished Am drivers. Over the years, he has secured three national GT titles and built a reputation for consistency and race intelligence.
Additionally, Emery has competed across categories such as Porsche Carrera Cup, Audi R8 LMS Cup, and endurance racing, including success at the Bathurst 12 Hour. His Pro-Am class win in Porsche Carrera Cup further highlights his adaptability.
Emery expressed confidence ahead of his return: “I’ve been keeping pretty busy in race cars in recent times, so I feel that I’m ready to step back into GT World Challenge.”
“Josh has done a fair bit of racing over the years, so he should be a very solid Pro. He’s got some serious competition to race against, but that is all part of the challenge in GT racing.
“My job is to to match it with the Bronzes, and once we get up to speed with the McLaren and get a good understanding of what it needs, I’m confident that we can be a threat.
“Driving the McLaren is going to be an all new challenge, but I feel it’s going to feel like a cross between an Audi and a Porsche. It will be nimble, but we’ll build up our confidence and speed through the weekend and we’ll see where we end up.”
Josh Hunt: Team owner steps back behind the wheel
Josh Hunt will take on a dual role as both driver and team leader. Historically focused on development and operations, Hunt now commits to a full GTWC season.
Previously, he has raced across Australia and Asia, including a strong showing in the Asian Le Mans Series GT class. Moreover, his recent podiums and endurance performances underline his competitiveness.
“I’m really keen to be back in. I got bitten by the bug in NZ and this time, it will be nice to commit to a full season of racing,” said Hunt. “The McLaren is just a great race car, and I’m excited to play a part in shaping the brand’s program here in Australia.
“Typically, I’m in the back ground, developing, testing and driving the business forward, but now that I’ll be back in the car full-time, the aim is to fast track the on-track development. Plus, it will put me in a better position to coach our drivers and customers.
“To be driving with Geoff is really cool. I’ve known him for a long time and he brings a lot of experience. We are like minded personalities, and it’s going to be a fun year working with him.
“The fields in GT World Challenge Australia are getting stronger year on year, so we have cautious with our exceptions. Our whole team is just keen to get out and see where we land.”
Alex Gardner: Building on early success in 2026 GTWC Australia campaign with Volante Rosso
Alex Gardner returns to GTWC after debuting in 2024. Despite his young age, he has already secured a Radical Cup Australia title and gained recognition through Ferrari’s driver development programme.
Equally important, Gardner maintains a strong relationship with Volante Rosso, having remained involved with the team even when not racing.
“I’m very happy to be back on the grid with Volante Rosso in GT World Challenge Australia,” said Gardner. “The team is my home away from home. Even while I wasn’t racing, I was working with the team, so I’m looking forward to representing them again and being back in the Aston Martin.
“It’s definitely good that I’m driving a car that I know, but we’ll just ease into the weekend, find our feet and see where we end up. Teaming up with Lee (Stibbs) is going to be great, and it’s cool to see such a competitive GT field to race against. I just can’t wait to get back in the car and onto one of the best race tracks in Australia.”
Lee Stibbs: Newcomer takes on GT3
Lee Stibbs steps into GT3 machinery for the first time. After debuting in 2023, he quickly built experience in TA2 and Trans Am competition, achieving consistent results and a race win. Therefore, his progression into GTWC marks a significant step in his career development.
“I’m looking forward to getting to Phillip Island with Volante Rosso and driving the Aston Martin with Alex,” said Stibbs. “Alex is obviously a young talent on the rise, and he has done plenty of miles in the Aston. That will be a big head start for us.
“I’m going to look to acclimate myself as quickly as possible, and my aim is to be able to give constructive feedback that will help drive us forward. I don’t plan on being the Bronze that’s a burden. I really want to contribute and be an asset.
“With the racing that I’ve been doing recently, I feel race fit for it. I haven’t raced a GT car before, but for everything I’ve been told, and the knowledge that the team has with the car, I hope that we’ll be able to get onto a good pace early.”
2026 GTWC Australia season opener at Phillip Island brings crucial first test for Volante Rosso
The 2026 GTWC Australia season begins at Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit on 27–29 March. This iconic circuit will provide an early benchmark for both entries.
Given the increasing depth of the GTWC field, the opening round will prove vital. On one hand, Hunt and Emery will aim to establish Pro-Am credentials. On the other, Gardner and Stibbs will focus on building rhythm and extracting performance from the Aston Martin.
Overall, Volante Rosso enters the 2026 GTWC season with a clear and structured approach. By combining experience with emerging talent, the team strengthens its competitiveness across both classes.
