SONIC SIGNS TWO ROOKIES FOR 2026 PORSCHE MICHELIN SPRINT

MEDIA RELEASE/Sonic Motor Racing Services – Photo: supplied

Reigning Porsche Michelin Sprint Challenge champion team Sonic Motor Racing Services will field two rookies in the second-tier Porsche class in 2026.

Former European open-wheel racer Xavier Avramides and last year’s Radical Cup Australia top rookie Ruairi Avern have joined the team for what will be an expanded Sprint Challenge campaign.

For Avramides, entering Porsche Michelin Sprint Challenge is a homecoming following three years overseas in karting and a stint in the highly-competitive F4 British Championship last year. 

The Queenslander finished fifth in the Rookie Cup class of the F4 British Championship, finishing a best of sixth outright and scoring five top 10 results. Previous to this, Avramides was part of the prestigious Tony Kart factory squad in 2024.

Avern was a late starter to motorsport, first pulling on a helmet in karting at 16 years of age. The West Australian has advanced through the development pathways quickly though, jumping from karting to the Porsche class in a matter of just three seasons.

Competing with front-running team Arise Racing, Avern scored multiple podiums during the Radical Cup season and finished as the top scoring rookie at the end of the season.

Avern’s Radical Cup Australia campaign ensures he has experience at a majority of the circuits on this year’s Porsche Michelin Sprint Challenge, with Townsville and Queensland Raceway the only exceptions.

Sonic secured its sixth Porsche Michelin Sprint Challenge title last year with Jake Santalucia claiming the crown. 

Santalucia joins an illustrious list of Sprint Challenge champions for Sonic, including Sven Burchartz’s success in the inaugural season of 2008, Ryan Simpson in 2016, followed by Harmish Hardeman, Jordan Love and Simon Fallon in consecutive seasons.

Avramides and Avern will enjoy a number of test days ahead of their race debut at Phillip island on March 27-29.

Xavier Avramides Sonic Motor Racing Services

“Even before I jumped in a car, the Sonic has been great to me. We clicked very quickly,” said Avramides. 

“It’s clear they know what they are doing and I knew it was the squad to be with.

“I learnt a lot while I was racing on the other side of the world. I made new friends, I met new people and it was great to develop my skills.

“I just missed out on third in the F4 British Championship Rookie Championship, but I collected some solid results and plenty of class podiums. 

“I’ve spent the last three seasons in Europe, so to be back this year in Australia is exciting and I know I’m really going to enjoy racing the Porsche.” 

Ruairi Avern Sonic Motor Racing Services

“Sonic has such an amazing history as a winning team, one of the most successful in the country and it’s a real privilege to represent them this year,” said Avern.

“I’m going into this season with a lot of motivation and a clear focus on being competitive. I’ve worked hard for this opportunity and I’m ready to make the most of it.”

“I know the standard in this year’s championship will be extremely high, but that’s exactly the challenge I’m looking for.  With Sonic’s experience and professionalism, I feel that we’ve got everything we need to be competitive.”

Michael Ritter Sonic Motor Racing Services

“It’s great to welcome two fresh faces to our team for the 2026 Porsche Michelin Sprint Challenge,” said Ritter.

“Last year was a very positive year. Jake (Santalucia) showed amazing composure, and the team kept backing him and it ultimately delivered the series win.

“I can see the same potential with Xavier and Ruairi. They have extremely different backgrounds, but it was clear from the first time we met them that they are hungry to be at the front.

“Rookie seasons in any category can be tough, but we know that they’ll have all of the right guidance and support to get the most out of them this year.”

---

SUBSCRIBE TO VELOCITY MAGAZINE 

For all our news keep your eyes peeled on the Velocity Magazine website and social media, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for our daily updates and to get the latest edition of our glossy magazine subscribe here from just $55 for 12 months subscription.

GET OUR LATEST ISSUE NUMBER 55 HERE

 

 

NAMING RIGHTS SPONSOR