Nominations Now Open for the Australian Motorsport Hall of Fame

Nominations are now open for the esteemed Hall of Fame, as the Australian Motorsport Council gears up to welcome its 100th member into the Australian Motorsport Hall of Fame at the 2026 Australian Grand Prix in Albert Park, Melbourne.

This Hall of Fame recognises outstanding achievers in both two and four-wheeled racing, celebrating those individuals whose contributions have significantly shaped and advanced the world of motorsport.

To date, only 99 individuals have been honoured from a rich history of 125 years of racing, averaging less than one induction per year since its inception in 2016.

Nominations are categorised into two groups: Special Members and Competitor Members.

The Competitor Member category encompasses individuals or teams that have shown exceptional success by competing at the highest levels within their motorsport discipline, whether nationally or internationally.

To qualify, nominees must have retired from full-time competition at the elite level, although part-time involvement is still permissible.

Meanwhile, Special Members are those who have made remarkable contributions to motorsport at the highest echelons in Australia or on the international stage, distinct from competitors.

This category includes individuals involved in motorsport administration, technical and engineering advancements, event and competition organisation, safety developments, and media and broadcasting roles.

Additionally, the Legend category pays tribute to individuals whose contributions to the sport have attained the highest and most respected levels. Selections for this accolade are made by their peers and do not follow the standard nomination process.

John Smailes, Chair of the Australian Motorsport Hall of Fame Selection Committee, has been leading the Hall of Fame in recent years and is eager to welcome a new group of inductees next year.

“Established in 2016, the Hall of Fame aims to preserve the stories, achievements, and innovations that define the heritage of motorsport,” Smailes remarked.

“Motor racing remains a sport where Australians consistently excel on the world stage.”

“Legends like Sir Jack Brabham, Alan Jones, Wayne Gardner, Mick Doohan, and Casey Stoner are just a few of the remarkable Australians who have claimed world champion titles and achieved household name status.”

“The Hall of Fame exists to inspire future generations—competitors, engineers, officials, and fans alike.”

The Australian Motorsport Hall of Fame committee has updated the criteria for potential inductees, emphasising the importance of maintaining a high standard of nominations, with a maximum of five motorsport heroes expected to be inducted in the upcoming selection.

Nominations are currently open and will close on Thursday, 31 July 2025.