Young gun to lead team’s TCR return

The new 99motorsport team will return to the Supercheap Auto TCR Australia with a different driver behind the wheel.

Kiwi 19-year-old Ben Stewart will get a chance to impress at TCR level by driving the 99motorsport Audi at the next round at Queensland Raceway on August 2-4.

Team owner Marcus LaDelle took driving duties at the team’s TCR debut at Sandown, but the RS3 has not been seen in the following three rounds due to crash damage and event clashes with its TGRA86 Scholarship Series commitments.

But he is more than happy to hand over the keys to Stewart, who has started to forge a reputation.

After winning the inaugural TGRA86 Scholarship Shootout in 2023, Stewart took on the Trans-Tasman Challenge in TA2 machinery over the summer where he was one of the few to get close to two-time Trans Am Champion Nathan Herne. 

Ben Stewart is ready for TCR debut.

The teenager has returned to Australia in 2024 and sits inside the top five in the 2024 TGRA86 Scholarship Series.

He cannot wait for his latest opportunity to impress in a series full of Supercars stars and rising talents.

“I’m really looking forward to the challenge of a front wheel drive Turbo, amongst some proper race car drivers,” Stewart said. 

“There really isn’t anyone there that hasn’t got a resume, so I can’t wait to be amongst it.

“I’ll be happy to finish all three races amongst the pack, but in the meantime I’m doing thousands of sim laps!”

LaDelle is confident Stewart can chase an impressive top 10 on debut, which will be a boost after a tough start to 2024.

“Ben is a standout talent that has adapted to everything he has put his butt in,” LaDelle said. 

Ben Stewart racing at Phillip Island. Image: Supplied

“I can’t wait to see the car on track again. I have no doubt that he will challenge the top 10 at QR even with the added challenge of racing the 86 at the same event.

“It’s been a tough year having the car parked, but I’m very proud that one of my young guys can get and have a crack. 

“Will Brown proved in 2022 that this car can compete at QR, so we’ll focus on the setup Will worked with and give Ben the best chance of fighting.”

The team are finalising preparation on the car ahead of a pre-event test, with a new livery to be unveiled before Stewart takes to the track from August 2-4.

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