Payne Wins the Battle, Feeney Wins the War: Drama Unleashed at Ruapuna Finale

Kiwi Matt Payne secures a commanding victory in Christchurch, while an engine failure for Ryan Wood allows Broc Feeney to claim the Jason Richards Memorial Trophy.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 20, 2026, 8:38 AM EDT

Source: RNZ Pacific

The Breaking Development: Payne's Ruapuna Masterclass

Starting from pole position, Matt Payne was untouchable over the 61-lap finale. He maintained a gap at the front to lead home teammate Kai Allen, marking a milestone achievement for Penrite Racing. "It's really nice to have a quick car, just being able to execute," Payne said following his victory. The win solidifies Payne's status as a top-tier contender in the 2026 season, though the race behind him was anything but smooth. A late safety car on lap 55—triggered by a high-speed tangle between heavyweights Brodie Kostecki and Chaz Mostert—briefly threatened Payne's lead but ultimately held the field in check for the final sprint.

Background and Strategic Context: The Jason Richards Heartbreak

The Jason Richards (JR) Memorial Trophy is the highest honor for a driver during the New Zealand leg of the championship. For 40 laps, it appeared destined for the hands of Ryan Wood, who had been the most consistent driver across both the Taupō and Christchurch events.

The Failure: On lap 40, Wood’s engine expired, forcing a devastating retirement from a comfortable position.

The Beneficiary: Broc Feeney, who finished third in the race, accumulated enough points through his podium finish to leapfrog the sidelined Wood and the struggling Kostecki. The trophy, named after the legendary Kiwi driver who died in 2011, will return to Australia with Feeney, along with the orange numbers designating him as the new championship leader.