Yuki Tsunoda's Adelaide GT3 Deal Blocked by F1 Team

SRO Motorsports Australia had lined up ex-Red Bull Racing driver Yuki Tsunoda to race for Tigani Motorsport in a Mercedes-AMG GT3 at the Adelaide Grand Final, but the deal was blocked by the F1 team. The promoter is also pursuing Jack Doohan and remains determined to secure a high-profile guest driver for the November 25-29 event.

Why it matters:

Adelaide has built a reputation for attracting international star power to its motorsport finale, following past wildcard appearances by NASCAR's Austin Cindric and Giancarlo Fisichella. Landing a recent F1 driver like Tsunoda would provide a significant profile boost for GT World Challenge Australia, particularly as global interest in GT3 surges following Max Verstappen's headline Nurburgring 24 cameo. The South Australian government actively seeks marquee names, knowing they draw attendance and international media attention.

The details:

• SRO chief Ben McMellan confirmed to Speedcafe that Tsunoda was set to drive for Tigani Motorsport before the F1 team blocked the arrangement.
• The promoter has also held talks with Jack Doohan, though no agreement is currently in place.
• GT World Challenge Australia will feature on the Adelaide Grand Final undercard from November 25-29.
• McMellan noted that while no driver is locked in, multiple conversations are ongoing to land a headline guest.

What's next:

McMellan is continuing efforts to sign a marquee name that upholds Adelaide's tradition of high-profile guest drivers. If successful, the move would capitalize on the growing crossover between Formula 1 and GT3 racing, giving the series valuable momentum ahead of the season finale.