The F2 Midget class is shaping up to be one of the standout divisions this season at Baypark Speedway, boasting one of the largest registrations the class has seen in years. Behind the scenes, the drivers have been hard at work, putting together an exciting away series that will see them travel as a group across the North Island. With at least five tracks already locked in, fans can expect fast, fierce, and closely fought competition and plenty of new names ready to make their mark.

Last season, the F2 Midget pack produced some incredible racing, with James Earl, Tylar Browne, Brynn Jackson, Corbin Anderson, and Josh Mathews regularly setting the pace. At Baypark, Earl proved consistently difficult to beat, though young Blake Allinson showed it could be done, delivering a superb drive to take victory on the night of the New Zealand Super Saloon Championship. The inaugural Aotearoa F2 Midget Title also captivated fans, with Jimmy Earl claiming the first-ever A1F2 Championship, while Dion Kendall stormed to second and Holly Russell earned a well-deserved third. This season, the championship is scheduled later in the calendar, promising fresh challenges for all contenders when the green flag drops.

Newcomers such as Roydon White and Grant Pedder are already generating buzz with their aggressive, elbows-up style, while rising talent from the Ministocks like Regan Le Cheminant and Campbell Hayes have impressed with their pace and skill. It’s clear the F2 field is deeper and more competitive than ever.

Among the drivers gearing up for a standout season is Baypark’s own Tylar Browne, racing the #96M for TBR Racing. With the Aotearoa F2 Midget Champs coming to his home track in March, Tylar shared his thoughts on what this season means to him and the wider F2 community:

Q: Tylar, the Aotearoa F2 Midget Champs are coming to Baypark in March — how special is it to have a major national event on your home track?
A: “Having a major title for the F2 class is massive. It’s been a privilege to have Baypark supporting the class and getting this national title underway. It’s a huge stepping stone and growth opportunity for the class and is easily everyone’s favourite event of the season. To have it held at Baypark is special — it’s hands down the best track in the North Island, and to have it as a salute to Bill Buckley and the creation of this class is the icing on the cake. Let’s hope it becomes an SNZ-recognised title in seasons to come.”

Q: What does this championship mean to you personally and to the wider F2 Midget community?
A: “For me personally, having this F2 title solidifies the standout drivers and gives everyone something to be excited for. The F2 class has always wanted the opportunity to crown 1st, 2nd, and 3rd NZ placings, and this title is the start of making that possible with SNZ in the future. Without Baypark and Bill’s support, none of this would be possible. For the wider F2 community, it’s an event that truly showcases the quality and talent this class can deliver.”

Q: How do you prepare mentally and mechanically for an event of this scale?
A: “Personally, it’s about having a clear mind — focusing on track conditions, learning racing lines, and keeping calm and strategic. Driving with your head is why guys like James Earl and Corbin Anderson are so dominant. Mechanically, it’s about making sure the car is in top condition and adjusting setups to feel comfortable on race day.”

Q: Baypark has a unique surface and shape — what style does it reward, and how will you use your home-track knowledge?
A: “Baypark is fast and very unique. It rewards hammer-down, fearless driving. The wide track and grippy surface let you hold the car wide open and give fans a real show. Having raced here for the past 4–5 seasons, I know the track quirks and that definitely gives me an advantage over newcomers heading into the title.”

Q: How’s the TBR Racing team preparing the #96M car for the championship?
A: “We’ve made minor changes, mostly cosmetic like a new exhaust. The key focus is driver comfort and mental preparation. Last season, we top-qualified but fell off in the feature — this season, we aim to be back in that position.”

Q: How important is teamwork behind the scenes?
A: “Teamwork is key in every event. With the class so competitive — 15 drivers capable of taking the top spot on any night — having a solid team behind you is pivotal.”

Q: Sponsors and family play a big role — who are supporting you?
A: “I’m privileged to have a family who supports racing, alongside a fantastic crew, extended family, friends, and partner. We have several sponsors helping us prepare the 96M for the title, and I couldn’t be more thankful.”

Q: Do you set goals or focus on consistent laps?
A: “I try not to put too much pressure on myself. Letting results come naturally and focusing on each race is the best approach.”

Q: What’s the biggest challenge for the championship weekend?
A: “Competition is fierce, but the biggest challenge is keeping a clear, focused mind. Often, your biggest competitor is yourself. Staying relaxed and focused is key, not just at the title but throughout the season.”

Q: How do you handle racing in front of a home crowd?
A: “Once you’re strapped in, you focus on the job. Hearing the crowd cheer is special, and Baypark’s support is incredible, but I focus on the track and my racing first.”

With the F2 Midgets stacked with talent, a thrilling away series ahead, and Tylar Browne ready to chase glory on his home turf, the 2025/26 season promises to deliver some of the most exciting open-wheel racing Baypark has ever seen. Fans can expect speed, skill, and plenty of storylines as both veterans and newcomers battle for supremacy under the New Zealand skies.