Why Mostert isn't panicking as Finals pressure mounts

Chaz Mostert believes there were "real signs of life” with his new Toyota in Christchurch, in what has been a wild title defence.

The reigning champion sits 11th — just two positions behind 2024 champion Will Brown — in the standings through four rounds, which marks his worst start to a season since 2016.

Mostert, though, has joined teammate Ryan Wood towards the pointy end more regularly after Sydney, where he lost points with a disqualification out of his control.

However, the performance is coming from the other side of the garage. Wood leads the qualifying head-to-head 10-3, and the race head-to-head 6-5.

The reigning champion said after Melbourne that he was “really happy” with the progress made in Melbourne, and that duly delivered a first podium of the season in Taupō.

Come Christchurch, and as Wood remained at the front, Mostert battled in qualifying. However, he made big gains in the final race, only to be penalised over a clash with Brodie Kostecki.

Sitting 23 points outside the top 10, scoreboard pressure is on Mostert early. However, despite the heartbreak of Christchurch, the Toyota star is adamant the results don’t tell the full story.

“[Christchurch] had everything — a bit of heartbreak, a lot of learning, and some really positive signs to take into the rest of the year,” Mostert said.

"The speed was genuinely there [on Sunday] and I'm proud of the effort, but we've just got to be cleaner. A lot more speed on our side of the garage which was pleasing.

Mostert paid tribute to his young teammate, who missed out on the Jason Richards Trophy in heartbreaking fashion.

"Woody did such an incredible job these last two weeks, he should hold his head up high on what he and the whole team were able to achieve,” Mostert continued.

"So a mixed bag for Christchurch, the results don't tell the full story of the progress we've made.

"There were real signs of life this weekend and I'll be going into Tassie with a lot more confidence in where we're heading. Bring on Tassie.”

Mostert resumes his title defence in Tasmania on May 22-24.

Chaz Mostert season by season

Championship position after Round 4

Note/s: Mostert missed final four rounds of 2025 through injury. 2013 not included as Mostert joined season at Round 4. 2026 season ongoing.