Ford ends six-year wait with early manufacturers’ title triumph
Ford has secured the 2026 Supercars Champion Manufacturer title with 14 races remaining, ending a six-year wait for one of the championship’s major honours.
The Blue Oval sealed the award through Matt Payne’s commanding victory in the opening race of the Perth Super 440. The Penrite Racing driver’s fourth win of the season lifted Ford to an unbeatable total and completed a remarkable campaign for the Mustang teams.
Credit: Samuel Densley Photography
Unlike the drivers’ and teams’ championships, the Champion Manufacturer title is determined by the number of race victories achieved by each brand throughout the season. Payne’s Perth success increased Ford’s total to 18 wins, placing it comfortably ahead of newcomer Toyota on three and Chevrolet on two.
With only 14 races left on the 2026 calendar, neither rival manufacturer can mathematically reach Ford’s tally. The championship was therefore confirmed immediately following Payne’s victory at Carco Raceway.
The result represents Ford’s first Champion Manufacturer success since 2020 and brings an end to five consecutive titles for General Motors brands. Holden claimed the award during the 2021 and 2022 seasons before Chevrolet dominated the opening three years of the Gen3 era.
Ford’s 2026 success has been built across several teams rather than relying on one dominant operation. Grove Racing and Dick Johnson Racing have each delivered six victories, creating a strong foundation for the manufacturer’s title charge.
Credit: Samuel Densley Photography
Triple Eight Race Engineering has contributed four wins during its first season running Ford Mustangs, while Tickford Racing has added another two. Together, the four operations have helped Ford control the season and secure the championship with several rounds still to contest.
The triumph is only Ford’s fifth Champion Manufacturer title since the award was introduced in 2009, highlighting the significance of its performances throughout 2026.
Payne’s victory provided an appropriate way to complete the championship. After recovering from a slow start in Perth, the New Zealander passed Cam Waters and controlled the race before surviving a late Safety Car restart.
His result delivered more than another win for Penrite Racing. It confirmed Ford’s return to the top of the manufacturer standings and rewarded the combined efforts of its teams, drivers, engineers and crews across the grid.
Although the drivers’ and teams’ battles remain undecided, Ford has already secured important silverware. With 18 victories and contributions from every Mustang operation, the Blue Oval’s consistency and strength have defined the 2026 Supercars season so far in convincing fashion.