JACKSON NOAKES CONFIRMS 2026 RX8 CUP CHAMPIONSHIP CAMPAIGN

MEDIA RELEASE/Jackson Noakes – Photo: supplied

Jackson Noakes has confirmed his 2026 RX8 Cup Championship campaign with the launch of Team Ultima, a refreshed program for the new season headlined by new naming-rights support from Australian Automotive Parts and its respected brands; Ultima Brake Parts and Suspension, Platinum Gaskets, and Selby Suspension Systems. The expanded partnership marks a major milestone as Noakes prepares for another highly competitive season.

“The support from Australian Automotive Parts and the move to become Team Ultima is incredibly exciting,” Jackson said. “This partnership has allowed an opportunity via my business HYPER image to create a brand-new, clean look for the #27, and I can’t wait to get on track this weekend at the iconic Phillip Island at round 1 of the 2026 RX8 Cup Series championship. I’m extremely grateful for their belief in what we’re building.”

Noakes also continues his long-standing partnership with BC Sands, who have supported him since his early days in motorsport.

“I’m proud to keep representing BC Sands,” Jackson said. “They’ve been with me for nine years now, from Hyundai Excel racing through to where we are today, and their continued support means a great deal. I’m proud to represent their business again in 2026.”

Supporting partners MCW Lawyers, 21 Overlays, Taren Point Towing, Townsend Signs, and Macri Motors Race Preparation & Restoration all return this season, each playing a vital role in ensuring Jackson can compete at the highest level. The team has also benefited from the generous off-season support of Tom’s Auto Body, who have again shown great support in our preparation for the new season.

Following a strong 2025 season in which Noakes fought for the RX8 Cup Championship right to the final round, he ultimately secured third in the standings a result he and the team are proud of. Across the 2025 season, the competition was relentless tenths separating cars in qualifying and races creating a championship fight that now motivates an even sharper campaign for 2026.

Wanting to build on that momentum, the off-season has been a seriously busy one. The #27 Mazda RX-8 has undergone a complete mechanical refresh, including a new Ric Shaw Racing engine.

“Huge thanks to Ric Shaw for always providing proven and reliable performance with his engines” Noakes said. “Finishing third was a fantastic result, but it also means there’s room to improve and we’ve worked hard and invested over the break to give ourselves that opportunity.”

Team Ultima will debut this weekend at Round 1 of the 2026 RX8 Cup Championship at the world-renowned Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, signalling the start of an exciting new chapter for Noakes and his supporters.

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