World’s best to return for Ultimate Driver Championship
The world’s top harness drivers will again go toe-to-toe in 2026 with the return of the Ladbrokes Ultimate Driver Championship.
The innovative slot racing series will return to Albion Park on Friday, February 20 and Saturday, February 21, following a hugely successful first iteration in 2025.
This year’s event saw 10 of the world’s best drivers compete for a share of $250,000, with slot holders selecting both drivers and horses across 20 action-packed races.
There will be even more incentive for drivers in 2026, with the prize money rising to $350,000.
Ten $30,000 slots will be available to purchase, with the overall Ultimate Driver and their slot holder to receive $110,000 as well as a $15,000 Nutrien Sales Voucher.
The winner of each race will also take home $1,000 per race victory.
Applications for slots have now opened, and will close on September 12, 2025.
Sunshine State young gun Angus Garrard was crowned the inaugural champion earlier this year, with his four wins and six placings ensuring a comfortable series victory.
RQ’s Senior Racing Manager - Harness Andrew Clarke said it was exciting to see the series return to The Creek for its second year.
“The inaugural Ultimate Driver Championship well and truly exceeded expectations both on and off the track, with bumper on-course crowds and strong international interest both contributing to its success,” Mr Clarke said.
“With the prize money to rise next year, we are expecting even more interest within the harness racing industry for this thrilling series.
“We have been buoyed by the response the Ultimate Driver Championship has generated across the globe, and we look forward to welcoming the world’s best back to Albion Park in 2026.”
Several world-class drivers accepted the invitation to bring their talents to Australia in 2025, with five-time USA Driver of the Year Dexter Dunn joining Hall of Fame reinsman Yannick Gingras and Swedish megastar Bjorn Goop in the field.
Local stars Nathan Dawson, Peter McMullen and Garrard were joined by Australasia’s premier drivers Gary Hall Jnr, Kate Gath, Brad Hewitt and Carter Dalgety in the quest for the Ultimate Driver title.
The Ultimate Driver Draft will also return for next year, with slot holders and drivers strategically selecting their horses in each of the 20 races via a snake draft.
Click here for more information on the Ultimate Driver series.
