Funding shortfall forces Byers to scale back TA2 title defence

Funding shortfall forces Byers to scale back TA2 title defence

Reigning TA2 New Zealand champion Caleb Byers has confirmed he will not contest the full 2026/27 championship season, citing a funding shortfall.

“I won’t be racing every round of the TA2 New Zealand Championship this season due to insufficient funding. I have worked hard to secure the budget required for this season and managed to secure support from my loyal sponsors including SP Tools, Blackwells Christchurch, and several other New Zealand businesses involved with my journey, I’m incredibly humbled by that backing. However, with a significant season budget still to find, the team and I have made the decision to regroup, focus on one or two South Island rounds, and take time to consider my future direction in motorsport.”

The decision comes ahead of a seven-round championship calendar and against a challenging economic backdrop in New Zealand. It marks a setback for the talented 18-year-old, who stamped his mark firmly on the championship last season claiming the national title with a commanding performance in the final race at Taupō during the weather-affected Supercars event in April.

“I really enjoyed last season and feel privileged to have shared that success with my family, sponsors and supporters. Winning in the growing V8 category was a proud moment, and while we won’t be able to commit to the full championship this year, we will aim to contest as many rounds as our budget allows.”

Byers and his team will now focus on securing further support while preparing for selected South Island appearances during the 2026/27 season.