Team of Tomorrow returns to fuel junior dreams in 2026

Following a successful debut in 2025, the Team of Tomorrow program will once again place grassroots talent at the heart of the Formula 1® Qatar Airways Australian Grand Prix 2026. The initiative offers promising junior karters rare behind-the-scenes access and exposure to elite motorsport environments with a firsthand experience into the life of a Formula 1® driver.

The program aims to inspire the next generation of motorsport talent, with two junior karters selected in collaboration with Karting Australia to experience the Grand Prix weekend from a perspective usually reserved for the sport’s biggest names. Karting is where almost all elite drivers begin their journey, including Melbourne’s own Oscar Piastri, who began karting at Oakleigh Karting Club in 2011.

Team of Tomorrow recognises that modern motorsport demands more than racing ability alone. Participants are immersed in elements rarely experienced by the general public, including media engagements, fan interactions, stage activations and behind-the-scenes access. The program is designed to strengthen future pathways from karting through to Formula 1® by experiencing the scale, professionalism and intensity of a global sporting event.

Quotes attributed to Australian Grand Prix Corporation Division Manager - Motorsport, David Corrigan:

"Grassroots karting is where so many motorsport careers begin. Team of Tomorrow is about recognising that talent early, and showing young drivers what’s possible when opportunity meets dedication to inspire the next generation.”

Quotes attributed to Karting Australia Chief Operating Officer, Lee Hanatschek:

"Team of Tomorrow is truly an experience of a lifetime for these young drivers, providing them with rare behind-the-scenes access to the Australian Grand Prix and the chance to be inspired by the very pinnacle of the sport. After taking part in the inaugural program, Alana and Sammy have continued to excel both on and off the track, and we look forward to seeing this year’s participants gain an equally incredible and motivating experience.”

Quotes attributed to Team of Tomorrow participant, Sammy Van Vuuren:

"Being a part of Team of Tomorrow was an amazing experience. Getting to see what real F1® drivers do behind the scenes made me feel like one too - it was one of the coolest things I’ve ever done!”

Quotes attributed to Team of Tomorrow participant, Alana Gurney:

"Talking to Oscar Piastri, and being on the stage with Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz were my favourite memories - amongst so many. Moments like that don’t happen every day, the best experience of my life!”