Jack Smith Joins Garry Rogers Motorsport for 2026 Trans Am Series

by Liam O'Connor Sports Editor

Jack Smith, a former full-time Supercars driver, is continuing his racing career in the Australian Trans Am Series, now with Garry Rogers Motorsport (GRM) for the 2026 season. The move marks a novel chapter for Smith, who competed in the series in 2025 with support from TFH Racing and SCT Logistics. This transition to GRM, a two-time championship-winning squad, signals a significant step in Smith’s motorsport journey and a shift in chassis for the driver, moving from a Mustang to a Camaro body.

The announcement comes as the Trans Am Series expands its calendar to include five events alongside the Supercars Championship in 2026, increasing the category’s visibility and importance for sponsors like SCT Logistics. Smith emphasized the value of this expanded coverage, stating, “As far as coverage goes, and for SCT in particular, it’s great to have the big events on the calendar.” He similarly expressed his familiarity and enjoyment of the tracks featured in the 2026 schedule, anticipating a successful year.

GRM’s Proven Success Attracts Smith

Garry Rogers Motorsport has established itself as a leading force in the Trans Am Series, claiming six race wins and three pole positions in 2025. Supercars star James Golding finished third in the standings driving for GRM last season. Smith highlighted the team’s consistent performance and professionalism as key factors in his decision to join. “GRM have been quite the standard in Trans Am for a number of years, and I was really drawn to the professionalism and level of the team,” he said. “In the last few years, GRM have been extremely consistent across all their drivers. They’ve been at the front and I’m looking forward to fitting in to that, working with the rest of the team and challenging them.”

A Familiar Connection for Rogers

GRM Director Barry Rogers expressed enthusiasm about welcoming Smith to the team, emphasizing the importance of a positive and enjoyable team environment. “When Jack left Supercars we were keen to run him in a Trans Am and present him how much fun motorsport can be and we are certainly looking forward to working hard with him this year and making motorsport fun again,” Rogers said. He also revealed a long-standing connection with the Smith family, dating back to 2015 when he first met Jack’s father, Peter, while Jack was racing a Super Tourer in New Zealand. Rogers noted his family’s admiration for Jack’s competitive spirit and clean racing style during his time in Supercars.

Camaro Switch for GRM

Smith’s move to GRM also signifies a change in machinery for the team, as they transition from racing Mustangs to Camaros in the Trans Am Series. This decision reflects GRM’s commitment to staying competitive and adapting to the evolving landscape of the series. Smith will be part of a four-car lineup at GRM, with the remaining drivers yet to be announced. The team’s strong performance in 2025, coupled with the addition of Smith, positions them as a frontrunner for the 2026 championship.

Trans Am Series Growth and Schedule

The 2026 Trans Am Series calendar includes five events alongside the Supercars Championship, according to Speedcafe.com. The series also ran as a support category at three Supercars Championship events in 2025, including the Adelaide 500, as detailed in the 2025 Australian National Trans Am Series Wikipedia page. A joint race with the TA2 Racing Muscle Car Series at the Bathurst Six Hour saw a combined grid of approximately 40 cars in 2025.

The 2026 Trans Am season is set to commence at the Hi-Tec Oils Bathurst 6 Hour from April 3-5. Fans and teams alike are anticipating a thrilling season of competition as the series continues to grow in popularity and attract top talent like Jack Smith.

The addition of Smith to the GRM lineup promises an exciting dynamic within the team and a strong challenge for the championship title. With a proven track record and a commitment to professionalism, both Smith and GRM are poised for success in the upcoming season.

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