Penrite Racing cops penalties over Payne wheel loss

Penrite Racing ended Saturday in Christchurch as winners, but it wasn't without penalty following the loose wheel for Matt Payne.

Payne dominated Race 12, but missed out on a victory chance in the earlier race after he lost his right rear wheel. The #19 Penrite Mustang was released into the race with a loose wheel, which came free of the Ford as Payne rounded the lap.

Between Races 11 and 12, officials confirmed Penrite Racing has been fined and docked points over the incident.

Confirmed by Motorsport Australia, Penrite Racing has been stripped of 30 teams championship points and fined $1500.

The report reads: "The Stewards reviewed the relevant broadcast vision of the pit stop.

"The vision showed Car 19 was serviced in the Pits and both rear wheels were changed. The right rear was not properly secured and separated from the Car once back on Track.

"The Stewards conclude that the Car was released in an unsafe condition and the Penalty is consistent with other Penalties imposed for similar incidents."

Penrite Racing also lost 30 teams' points from a personnel breach in Taupō. The penalties have the team 74 points behind leaders Red Bull Ampol Racing, where the margin would otherwise be just 14 points.

Payne returned serve in Race 12, dominating from the get-go after picking off pole-sitter and Jason Richards Trophy leader Ryan Wood.

The final day of the 2026 ITM Christchurch Super 440 commences with Boost Mobile Qualifying for Race 13 at 11:50am NZST/9:50am AEST.