Australian motorsport icon Craig Lowndes has officially announced his two-year agreement with Team 18, marking a significant enhancement for the team’s operations. The three-time Supercars champion is set to spearhead a wildcard entry for endurance races commencing in 2026, in collaboration with Chevrolet Racing. Notably, automotive retailer Supercheap Auto will also be involved in this exciting venture.
Lowndes, renowned for his extensive experience in Supercars and celebrated for winning the Bathurst 1000 an impressive seven times, expressed enthusiasm about joining Team 18. He highlighted the growth and success of the Supercheap Auto wildcard program during his tenure at Triple Eight, noting that it has become a strong avenue for aspiring drivers looking to secure a future in motorsport.
Reflecting on this new chapter, the 51-year-old stated, “It’s an exciting time ahead. Continuing the program with Team 18 and GM is a fantastic opportunity. Transitioning to a new team after so many years will be a significant change, but I’m familiar with many faces there. I’m looking forward to seeing what Team 18 has developed in their workshop.”
Team owner Charlie Schwerkolt acknowledged the monumental significance of bringing Lowndes into the fold for the 2026 and 2027 seasons, describing it as an incredible honour. He reminisced about the team’s journey, noting the remarkable progress from its origins as a single-car entry in 2013 to now hosting a legendary figure in the racing world.
“We’re fully committed to ensuring the wildcard program is competitive right from the start,” Schwerkolt asserted. He expressed ambition to uphold the exceptional standards set by Triple Eight in recent years and is eager to identify a talented co-driver to accompany Lowndes. Additionally, the team plans to assemble a capable crew, aiming to compete vigorously at prestigious events like Bathurst and The Bend.
While further details regarding the co-driver and race number will be disclosed next year, Lowndes’ partnership with Team 18 is poised to generate excitement in the Supercars landscape, bringing his wealth of knowledge and talent to a new team dynamic. As fans and followers eagerly anticipate this new alliance, it’s clear that Lowndes remains a transformative presence in Australian motorsport.