Rusty's Garage

The 2026 Formula 1 season is here, and Mark Howard and Greg Rust are back to break down everything you need to know ahead of the new season. Rusty and Howie dive into the biggest storylines heading into the new season — from new regulations and engine changes to Ferrari’s much-talked-about “upside-down wing”. They also unpack the arrival of Audi into Formula 1 with the Revolut F1 team, the introduction of a new 11th team with Cadillac, and what it all means for the future of the grid. There’s also plenty of focus on the Aussie hope Oscar Piastri - and whether McLaren’s “Papaya Rules” will hold firm in 2026 - before the boys answer listener questions and reveal their predictions for the top three drivers of the season. This special F1 season preview is brought to you by BP, technology partner of the Audi Revolut F1 team, with your chance to win a trip to the Singapore Grand Prix.

We don’t often get administrators on the pod but as he prepared for one of MA’s biggest weeks of the year Josh kindly swung by the studio. Josh Blanksby has only been in the job for a few weeks but he brings over 20-years experience in the horse racing, wagering, media and hospitality sectors. The former CEO of the Melbourne Racing Club talks about his observations from the first few weeks in the job and gearing up for the Australian Grand Prix at Albert Park. Why he’s conscious of the balance between grassroots competition and the headline acts. Threats and opportunities; our passionate army of 12,000 volunteers and giving them the support and encouragement to grow their skillset. You’ll get a sense of Josh’s leadership style that he brings to an organisation that is so community-focused and what is transferrable from his prior experience. It’s an open and engaging chat with a leader who is acutely aware of the reigns he’s taken and his commitment to an open-door policy. Head to Rusty's Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and give us your feedback and let us know who you want to hear from on Rusty's Garage

With Supercars gearing up for its second round alongside F1 at Albert Park we thought it was a good chance for you to get to know the sport’s new play-by-play commentators a little better. Chad Neylon, Matt Naulty and Richard Craill have each walked different roads to get to this point and have become good friends along the way.  They’ll share the lead calling role throughout the season. Why they are proper car (and bike) fans, the hard yards they’ve done across multiple forms of Motorsport, the grassroots and PA commentary that helped shape them and some of the impressive jobs they’ve done internationally too. From a shared love of ‘The Simpsons’ to the classic bike in the Neylon family plus the scars on Craillsy’s hands from working on his first car (he still owns it and won’t part with it) as well as the King of Story telling - why Naulty also has a forklift driver’s license. Much has been written and said about the sport’s big broadcast changes this year. This chat isn’t about reigniting that…..quite the opposite. The boys are all acutely aware of the magnitude of this job opportunity and very respectful of the legends who came before them. Why Rusty thought a shortcast would be long enough for this one we’ll never know. This is a ripper pub style convo between four Motorsport mates. Enjoy… Head to Rusty's Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and give us your feedback and let us know who you want to hear from on Rusty's Garage

It’s one of the biggest weeks of the year and Rusty is in Melbourne for the Australian Grand Prix. While the spotlight might be on McLaren’s Oscar Piastri there are Aussies hoping to follow in his footsteps. Countryman James Wharton is back in Formula 3 for a second season but this time he reunites with the Prema Team. He talks about spending summer in New Zealand keeping match fit in Toyota’s ultra competitive Formula Regional class against a third of this year’s F3 field. Living in Italy (he’s been there since before the pandemic) and being away from family & friends in his early teens while focusing on a career in racing. Getting the chance to race in F2 last year and why it’s his clear target for 2027. We also talk Ferrari Academy, whether his rivals in the F3 paddock can remain friends, and the hand picked team he wanted for this year’s championship. Plus the old school set of wheels he keeps back home & why he loves it so much. James is unapologetically focused on the road he’s chosen & that comes through in this fast paced convo. Head to Rusty's Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and give us your feedback and let us know who you want to hear from on Rusty's Garage See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From Supercars CEO James Warburton’s faith in him before The Bend had even been built to the global award it received that he at first thought was a prank. The importance of forging a relationship with Dorna and the fascinating Covid period convos with Formula One management. Why he can’t stand still and the message for other promoters and circuit owners on acting now to stay relevant. Plus the big news around MotoGP’s move to the streets of Adelaide from Phillip Island in 2027. Why it didn’t end up at The Bend & his part in bringing the key players together as a proud South Aussie including a secret track inspection after the Adelaide Grand Final last year. And what about the rumours of World Superbikes heading this way too? This isn’t just for motor racing fans. Business owners will be glued to his insights in this area too. And Sam shares a few ‘life lessons’ that are takeaways for us all. Hope you enjoy the listen as much as we did during the record.  Head to Rusty's Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and give us your feedback and let us know who you want to hear from on Rusty's Garage

You’ll know Sam & the Shahin name from the incredible complex they’ve created in South Australia - The Bend Motorsport Park. This is an incredible story of a family leaving its war torn homeland for what they hoped would be a better life down under. An ad for a service station & how it leapt out at Sam’s father - the beginning of a dynasty in this space built on the back of hard work, vision & drive. How Sam left a promising career in medicine to work in the family business & the lengths he went to ‘tool up’ for the role. Where the idea for The Bend came from, the process to get it over the line, and the journey of discovery that took him right round the world to understand the best way to build it.  From the moment Sam candidly begins speaking you’ll be drawn into this conversation and he kindly shares details of his life and how it lead to Motorsport (in his 40’s) that aren’t widely known.  Head to Rusty's Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and give us your feedback and let us know who you want to hear from on Rusty's Garage

Imagine riding your motorbike from Germany to Mount Panorama. That’s exactly what Romolo Liebchen did! The former Audi Sport Customer Racing boss loves the #B12hr and has had this dream for a while now. How he made it a reality, the incredible places he visited along the way, the planning, the bike & the challenges he encountered. Plus where he’s off to next and the insane k’s he’s chalked up on two wheels during his lifetime. We also chat about Audi’s change of direction in relation to its Customer R8 GT program and the big move into Formula One. This little known story piqued Rusty’s interest when he saw the bike parked outside the Melbourne Performance Centre garage over the weekend while making a doco on the history making Quinn Family entry.  Romolo’s story is fascinating. Enjoy the ride. Head to Rusty's Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and give us your feedback and let us know who you want to hear from on Rusty's Garage

We’ve got the voice of Radio Le Mans on the pod for the first time and they recorded the ep in the National Motor Racing Museum at Mount Panorama! Let’s face it between Rusty and John it was always going to be a big ask to keep the chat to a shortcast duration so there’s over half an hour of convo for you to enjoy ahead of this weekend’s race. From human interest stories like the Quinn entry where driving duties will be shared across three generations of the family to the headline grabbing return of MotoGP legend Valentino Rossi.  He’s here because he wants to be! Why this event has become so well regarded internationally not just because of the lure of this classic race track. Can Maro Engel break a bit of a Bathurst hoodoo? And some of the standout Aussies in the field including Supercars champion Chaz Mostert and his rival who went so, so close to claiming that title last year - Broc Feeney. Plus some of the other stories to follow like Kenny Habul, Matt Campbell, BMW’s hopes of going back-to-back and the highly anticipated grudge match between Chev and Ford as the Corvette and the Mustang GT3 machines line-up for this unforgiving 12 hour race. Make sure you visit the National Motor Racing Museum the next time you get to Bathurst. Cars, bikes and all sorts of racing disciplines are celebrated with an incredible collection on display https://museumsbathurst.com.au/nmrm/ Our thanks to John for coming on too. For more on Radio Le Mans check out https://radiolemans.co/ Head to Rusty's Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and give us your feedback and let us know who you want to hear from on Rusty's Garage

For a time, Grant Denyer - the Gold Logie-winning racer and TV host who’s in our library - was simply Craig’s son. Now Craig is Grant’s dad! How Craig’s clever grasp of the commercial side of media and motorsport helped early in Grant’s racing journey. The advent of Ute Racing and why it took off. His gravitation towards Category Management, which would see him excel in this space for decades. More recently, it’s been the growth and expansion of the TA2 class, which is in great shape. The funny nickname his grandkids have given him and why it stuck, plus the project he’s working on now that could break a record! Grant, Craig and Rusty all worked together for years at Ten Motorsport. It’s no wonder this enjoyable, rapport-filled chat flies by. Head to Rusty’s Facebook, Twitter or Instagram, give us your feedback, and let us know who you want to hear from on Rusty’s Garage.

Growing up in the bush and being captivated by the legends racing at the Hume Weir, including a young Peter Brock. Building a speedway car on a budget and the inspiration he drew for the colour scheme. A bit of moonlighting on the mic, and why working in the media was the perfect fit for him. How a radio station on the New South Wales Central Coast led to his involvement in a major rally, and the guns he enticed to compete in it. Dick Johnson, Malcolm Wilson and more helped bolster its status. Faxing press releases out for the Chickadee Commodore team the year they won Bathurst, and why Allan Grice almost didn’t make it to the track in time! Working in the UK for a time before returning for a big radio opportunity on the Gold Coast, and celebrity races at the Surfers Paradise Indy Carnival. Craig has a knack for storytelling, and he tells them well. Strap in for a fun conversation. Head to Rusty’s Facebook, Twitter or Instagram, give us your feedback, and let us know who you want to hear from on Rusty’s Garage.

The highly rated Brit chats with Rusty on the eve of the 70th New Zealand Grand Prix at Highlands.   He’s been racing in NZ over summer and broke through for a win at the old school Teretonga Park last weekend. Freddie CV’s is seriously impressive with a swag of karting championship wins including a Junior World Title and an FIA European Championship. Making the transition to single seaters in recent years and his recording breaking season in Italian F4 that the netted more wins than Kimi Antonelli, who held the previous record. You’ll get a sense of Slater’s immense inner drive in this conversation, why the timing is right for him to be part of a Development Program with a major manufacturer and the laser focused approach he’s taking to Formula 3 this year. But first he wants to win a prestigious open wheel crown in the ‘Land of the Long White Cloud’ and he’s right in the hunt! With a good team around him Freddie seems to be taking all the right steps on the path to Formula One. Respectful of those who’ve come before him but very much his own man. This engaging chat will leave you in no doubt that Slater is the right fit for Audi as the German manufacturer gets ready to grid up in Formula 1. Head to Rusty's Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and give us your feedback and let us know who you want to hear from on Rusty's Garage

Making it to Europe & memories of his time racing there as he chased a drive in Formula One. Some of the names he was around back the junior days in the UK like Lewis Hamilton. Forming a friendship with Mark Webber & the training they did together including some life lessons as he climbed the ladder. Driving the Minardi F1 car at Misano which he recalls in vivid detail even now. Switching to Supercars & just how big that move was before landing multi year deals with all of the gun teams in pitlane. Plus wins at Bathurst & against the odds performances for smaller teams which gave him enormous satisfaction. As well as the next chapter with Grove which he is looking forward to immensely. This ep just keeps getting better. You’ll understand why we reckon it’s among our best from the moment you hit play! Head to Rusty's Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and give us your feedback and let us know who you want to hear from on Rusty's Garage

The family’s rich racing history which Will has an acute appreciation for. A WWII story of bravery & survival generations before him & its link with Motorsport. Racing karts & taking a break for a while before getting back in ‘boots n all’ with a renewed commitment & impressive speed that set him up for a full time career. Forming lifelong friendships with Jamie Whincup in Formula Ford & recognizing Will Power’s talent early on. Plus getting back in a single seater in New Zealand & his impressions of the Formula Atlantic. As well as the chance to decompress & enjoy some perspective ahead of a season of change for Will in 2026. This conversation is beautifully philosophical at times but you’ll come to appreciate Davison’s ability to harness the tough stuff in our sport & use it as a powerful motivator. And why he’s loving family life too. Head to Rusty's Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and give us your feedback and let us know who you want to hear from on Rusty's Garage

The 18-year-old Kiwi is back home for an awesome summer of racing before jetting back to Europe for a big year in F3. We spoke with him at Taupo International Motorsport Park ahead of round 2 of CTFROT - Toyota’s ultra competitive single seater series. Louis won the opening race of the season last week as the Next Gen NZ Championship launched into four straight weeks of events. Where he gets his inner drive (lets just say he’s very determined), how he’s framed an at times difficult season in 2025 and some thoughts on the year ahead with Prema. Plus his adrenaline addiction and sky diving while he’s here with last week’s pod guest Ryan Wood. Hope you enjoy getting to know a young racer with a great personality who would love to add his name to the prestigious list of winners of the New Zealand Grand Prix before he jets back out to Europe for the year. Head to Rusty's Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and give us your feedback and let us know who you want to hear from on Rusty's Garage

For our first ep of season ‘26 Rusty catches up with Supercars rising star Ryan Wood in the paddock at Hampton Downs. ‘Woody’ is stepping into an open wheeler over summer and we caught up with him on the eve of round 1 of the Toyota series that’s now badged CTFROT. There is a seriously impressive line-up here trying to follow in the footsteps of Arvid Lindblad who won the title last year on the way to a full time drive in Formula 1.  (You can find Arvid’s shortcast ep in our library). The new F1 champ Lando Norris is another former graduate of this series. How Ryan is coping with the different demands of open wheel racing and how the MTEC crew wisely includes some of his colleagues from the Walkinshaw Supercars squad. Plus some thoughts on the new Supra he’ll race in the Supercars Championship this year and the ways Kiwi legend Greg Murphy helps him as he continues to climb the ladder. Head to Rusty's Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and give us your feedback and let us know who you want to hear from on Rusty's Garage

Making ‘Play of the Day’ after a clash with Dick Johnson and running their own privateer Supercars team on the Gold Coast. Co driving for the Stone Brothers and Marcos Ambrose and acquiring Team Brock. The crash at Bathurst that ended his Supercars career and why he’s lucky to be alive! The new gen Trophy Truck on the way for he and Toby Price amid the unfinished business they have at Baja. Establishing PWR and the how the GFC very nearly ended it all. Coming to the attention of F1 teams and the intros to North American Motorsport thanks to a good friend of the pod, Leigh Diffey. Plus the next generation Weel taking aim at the Olympic Games after growing up with the family’s ‘no risk, no fun’ policy. The idea for this ep came about after Rusty’s recent Baja 1000 bucket list adventure with the team from BFGoodrich tyres. Head to Rusty's Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and give us your feedback and let us know who you want to hear from on Rusty's Garage

Weely joins the pod for a Feature Ep as he and Toby Price try to process losing the famed Baja 1000 in Mexico in recent weeks almost within sight of the finish!  A tear away on two-wheels as a youngster and how he came to an ‘arrangement’ with the Police. Riding with Jeremy McGrath and how leaving school at a young age didn’t hold him back. Plus the family love of Off Road racing and the determination his Dad Kees has shown fighting back from a recent stroke. And keep an ear out for Paul’s Dakar plan….a bud you may not have heard about until now. The Weel’s aren’t often in the media spotlight but it’s quite the story and Paul’s keen to share more of it. Enjoy this rare convo with the racer turned businessman at the cutting edge of competition cooling.  Head to Rusty's Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and give us your feedback and let us know who you want to hear from on Rusty's Garage

With Lando Norris celebrating his first driver’s championship we debrief the final round of a very memorable season. Rusty is joined by Matt Hickey from Codesports for their best post race convo yet! Why Papaya Rules need a tune up if McLaren persists with them & the champion qualities Oscar Piastri showed despite missing out on F1’s biggest prize. A couple of standouts of the season beyond the big four teams and a year Alpine would probably prefer to forget. Plus Senator Matt Canavan misses Zak Brown’s Christmas list and the countdown to the start of the 2026 season. How many sleeps to go? Head to Rusty's Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and give us your feedback and let us know who you want to hear from on Rusty's Garage

The 1980 F1 World Champion Alan Jones reckons Bondy’s talent could have taken him to global success but he chose to stay local which suited the family man. What it was like working with the legendary Harry Firth and the differences in the way the Factory Holden and Ford Touring Car outfits went about their racing. The world class rally cars he built here and what Ari Vatanen and David Richard’s wanted in those incredible Ford Escorts. Staying at the Captain Peter Janson’s place in Melbourne and driving the Porsche 956 at Sandown. Plus the important fundraising work his wife Robyn did with some of the other wives and partners to improve safety standards. This is an overdue conversation with Colin Bond OAM the Supercars and Australian Motorsport Hall of Famer who still enjoys coming to the track and hanging out in the Team 18 garage with his good friend Charlie Schwerkolt who you can also find in the Rusty’s Garage library.  https://www.australianmotorsporthalloffame.com.au/inductees/colin-bond-oam/ Head to Rusty's Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and give us your feedback and let us know who you want to hear from on Rusty's Garage

Growing up on Sydney’s lower North Shore and marrying the girl across the road to learning the mechanical skills that would serve him so well in his career. Success at club level and how those fundamentals became a cornerstone of his achievements at the highest level. From Hill Climbs to Round Australia and forging a reputation that meant he was good in just about any discipline. There are memories of race tracks that are long gone and beating some international stars of the day on the way to wins at Bathurst, the Australian Rally Championship and more. Recorded on the Monday after an epic Bathurst 1000 Rusty sat in the lounge at the Hall of Famer’s house and the pair just chatted.  We don’t get to every car or race but you’ll enjoy the relaxed convo. The idea of finally getting Colin on Rusty’s Garage came about following the release of his fantastic new book ‘Full Tilt’ written by respected author and broadcaster John Smailes who joined us for a Feature Episode recently too. Head to Rusty's Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and give us your feedback and let us know who you want to hear from on Rusty's Garage

Tickford star and friend of the show Thomas Randle joins us for a special bonus edition of the shortcast ahead of the Adelaide 500 season finale. He’s just returned from an epic trip to the UK hanging out with rally legends Carlos Sainz and Petter Solberg where he got to drive a seriously cool car on the dirt!  How he feels about being eliminated at Sandown and some observations on the four who will battle it out for the 2025 Supercars title under this new finals format. Channeling his inner actor for Tickford’s viral vids and some champagne comedy with our mates at Autobarn. We reflect on the passing of Hall of Famer Allan Moffat and the impact he had on the sport along with the importance of celebrating his legacy this weekend. Plus NASCAR sensation Austin Cindric and how he’s settling in ahead of his wildcard appearance down under. Who he thinks will win the F1 title as well as Tom’s time in the commentary box this season for the Shannon’s Speed Series. Don’t miss this ripper racing convo between a couple of mates as Tom beams in from Adelaide. Head to Rusty's Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and give us your feedback and let us know who you want to hear from on Rusty's Garage

Verstappen dominated the GP in the ‘Entertainment Capital of the World’ reminding us again of his truly special talent, the kind that will ultimately have us drawing parallels with Michael Schumacher and Ayrton Senna. But Max’s 69th career win wasn’t the biggest talking point in Las Vegas it was the disqualification of BOTH McLarens after failing a post race tech inspection! Matt Hickey from Codesports is back on the pod for an easy listening convo with Rusty that unpacks the lot. How could McLaren get it so wrong at such a critical time? And what does it mean with two GP’s and a sprint race remaining? Their disqualification elevates Kimi Antonelli to the podium and he did with a drive that was absolutely worthy of some silverware. Ferrari’s form wasn’t great and Liam Lawson’s lap one move reignited the Aussie vs Kiwi sporting rivalry. Plus a bold prediction as the sport moves back to the Middle East for the final two rounds of the season. Head to Rusty's Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and give us your feedback and let us know who you want to hear from on Rusty's Garage

Joanne dropped by the Garage studio before heading to Las Vegas for the final round. It’s been a big year for the Aussie teenager leaving the comforts of home to immerse herself in the Academy and everything it offers. Buoyed by a strong weekend in Singapore last time out Joanne is determined to finish the season on a high. The learnings in one of Motorsport’s fastest growing classes and who has helped her along the way. How she already feels a positive sense of responsibility to inspire the next wave of young Women in Motorsport. And why she is just getting started on the road to achieving her goals at the very highest levels of the sport. Spend a moment getting to know this emerging racer….a raw talent who is keeping it real as she continues to climb the ladder.  Head to Rusty's Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and give us your feedback and let us know what you want to hear about in future Motorsport Brief episodes with Rusty. 

No matter what side of the ditch you’re on you’ll love this ep!  Hayden Paddon, the first Kiwi since Possum Bourne to win the ARC joins us on the shortcast along with co-driver John Kennard fresh from the podium. Other than a rogue kangaroo in Canberra and little suspension issue nearing the finish in Tassie (which gave us all heart palpitations) the performance the Hyundai pairing put in this season was sublime!  Good luck getting that massive perpetual ARC trophy in your luggage boys. We’ve got customs on standby in a final attempt to keep it here. Will they come back and defend it next year plus a little moment of perspective courtesy of Hayden’s hero. Now in the interests of balancing the great Aussie vs Kiwi sporting rivalry (it’s passionate but friendly in rallying) we’ve added some Green & Gold to this otherwise Silver Fern convo too. In the 2nd half off this shorty Taylor Gill joins us. He went so bloody close to winning the Junior World Rally Championship in recent weeks. How he’s coped with that heartbreak and why it won’t define him. Plus his determined bid to get behind the wheel of a Rally 2 car at the highest level….and maybe the odd ARC appearance, if it all lines up. Head to Rusty's Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and give us your feedback and let us know what you want to hear about in future Motorsport Brief episodes with Rusty. 

Recorded in the days following his passing Rusty is joined by Garth Tander, James Moffat, Steven Richards, Lee Holdsworth, Supercars CEO James Warburton, James Golding, Owen Kelly, Aaron Cameron. Jordan Cox and long time Garry Rogers Motorsport staffer Sally Parkinson. Leigh Diffey and Scott MacLaughlin join us from the US while former Network Ten Head of Sport David White dials in from the UK. This special edition of the pod is a collection of fresh conversations from those who knew him well….fun memories, emotional moments and high points of racing careers guided by Garry. We won’t get to everyone who raced for GRM over the next hour or so (you can find Jason and Ben Bargwanna in our library for example and there’s an awesome episode with Michael Caruso too). Crack a beer (not if you’re under age or driving) and say cheers to Garry Rogers. Someone who did so much for Australian Motorsport and Supercars. The Hall of Famer will be missed greatly in pit lane but especially by his family and friends. Our thoughts are with them at this time. Head to Rusty's Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and give us your feedback and let us know who you want to hear from on Rusty's Garage. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tony Quinn is back on the pod to announce details of a Meguiar’s Bathurst 12 hour entry that spans three generations. His pride for this history making moment is arguably greater than his incredible business successes or the big global Motorsport events he’s tackled over the years. Next February the Quinn's will line up for the internationally acclaimed race at Mount Panorama. Tony, his sons Klark and Kent, as well as Grandson Ryder, who calls TQ Popeye! Wait till you hear which car they’re going to use and some of the people on the team spinning spanners and calling the shots. There’s some seriously good operators among the friends who will don the mechanics overalls to share the moment with them. Why Tony’s not making bold predictions about their chances and how it all came together. Plus his thoughts on Triple 8’s endurance campaign and some of the recent moves in the Supercars pit lane. This is Tony Quinn but not like other eps of the pod he’s appeared in underscoring just how much it means that the family has come together for a project that means so much more to all of them than just a tick on their bucket list.  Rusty recorded this chat ahead of round 1 of the Next Gen NZ Championship this weekend at Hampton Downs which Tony & his team in New Zealand promote. There’s a strong Aussies vs Kiwis rivalry brewing too with GT3 and GT4 from Oz staging their final round of the season as a part of the event.https://nextgennz.co.nz/    Head to Rusty's Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and give us your feedback and let us know who you want to hear from on Rusty's Garage

Moving to America and playing an important part in an incredible period of dominance with Suzuki. The competitive intensity fellow Aussie Matt Mladin brought to his training and racing as well as the emergence of data and the deep dives that helped make him a better rider. Returning home and switching from team land, where you try to exploit even the smallest holes in the rules, to enforcing them for Motorcycling Australia. How policing the technical side lead to the top job, the challenges navigating through covid and a balance sheet that was on life support. The greenshoots in all areas of two wheel competition in Oz inspired by our MXON and Speedway teams in recent months. Plus working on the Australian Motorsport Hall of Fame board and a park the politics ‘roll your sleeves up’ approach to management. Peter’s candid approach to story telling will leave you in no doubt that the right administrator can make a good Motorsport podcast guest.  Head to Rusty's Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and give us your feedback and let us know who you want to hear from on Rusty's Garage

The straight talking CEO of Motorcycling Australia joins us for a feature length conversation that goes well beyond rules and regs. Doyle grew up in a family entrenched in the motorcycle racing community where the big names of the day would often be round for dinner. Living and breathing bikes had a profound effect on him. Peter rode as a young fella but openly admits that if he didn’t change some wild ways he could have gone down the wrong path in life. A decision to work on bikes rather than race them took him overseas to pursue success in the World Superbike Championship. He shared parts of the journey with names like Aaron Slight, Robbie Phillis (who are both in the Rusty’s Garage library) and many more. From home made spas in Germany next to Millie Vanilli’s recording studio to making the paddock realise it wasn’t just riders with talent that came from a land Down Under. This one ain’t full of management speak just because Doyley works for the Governing Body now. There’s some good laughs and engaging convo. Hit the starter and enjoy. Head to Rusty's Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and give us your feedback and let us know who you want to hear from on Rusty's Garage

Shane van Gisbergen is back on the pod and he tackles your questions. With the NASCAR community raving about his performance this year (especially on road courses) we get his thoughts on the progress he’s making on ovals. Will he do some Sprintcar Racing or even the Chilli Bowl during the off season and has he nearly pulled a ‘hammy’ kicking that Rugby ball into the crowd. SVG managed to watch Bathurst around his Trackhouse commitments in Vegas and he offers up some observations on that classic edition of the Great Race. And why he’s wound back a bit of the SIM race prep but cranked up his views of onboard videos. Shane has made a few appearances on the Garage over the years but this conversation is one of their best. Don’t miss it… Head to Rusty's Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and give us your feedback and let us know who you want to hear from on Rusty's Garage

The PR agency he established which became a benchmark with a strong automotive footprint and bluechip clients like Toyota. How working in TV complimented his business and why he always remained eyes forward when a chapter in broadcasting came to a close. The awkward moment between Rusty & Smailsey when their careers intersected and the respect they have for each other now. How a bet on Wayne Gardner lead to someone stripping in the back of an interview he did. And introducing rally legend Colin McRae to a hero of his. The 10th book he’s written, the story of one of Australia’s most versatile drivers Colin Bond who raced for both the Holden and Ford factory teams. https://superstore.v8sleuth.com.au/products/full-tilt-colin-bond-autobiography-book?srsltid=AfmBOopas6WLpdbRYpjoGB8PmnDEOwQJpRbzw2Yn4UZbBBJqN9b0kDhW Plus John’s passionate work on the Australian Motorsport Hall of Fame and why he’s so determined to keep the inductees names up in lights. https://www.australianmotorsporthalloffame.com.au/ 

He wrote to Ferry Porsche in his teens and got a reply! Then his hero, the 1960 Australian Touring Car Champion David McKay, would help start his long career in the media. Many listener’s will remember John Smailes from his time on the ABC commentating with Will Hagon and a young Neil Crompton. It became one of the first soundtracks of Aussie Motorsport. JS also worked for the Packer’s and the forerunner to Wide World of Sports where an ‘F bomb’, dropped by a legendary racer, once made it to air. Covering crime and politics in his early years and why he’s never lost that news sense. Traveling through some treacherous destinations covering the London to Sydney and the book on it which became a collectors item. Plus memorable interviews he did with Frank Gardner and why Enzo Ferrari thought Kiwi Chris Amon could have been a great! You’ll be gripped by this conversation. Ripper motor racing stories told by a good story teller. Head to Rusty's Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and give us your feedback and let us know who you want to hear from on Rusty's Garage

Hear from the top 3 combos shortly after the celebrations wrapped up at an epic Bathurst 1000. Winner’s Matt Payne and Garth Tander reflect on the what it means to win one of the most memorable editions of the Great Race for the Grove squad. David Reynolds and Lee Holdsworth chat about the stress of the final few laps and how they reveled in the conditions to move into podium contention for Team 18. Then James Golding on the penalty that cost him a win and David Russell’s savvy driving to help set-up one of PremiAir Racing’s best results. With the champagne drying on their race suits and the formalities over the drivers open up on a day they’ll never forget. We then switch from 4 wheels to 2 for a look ahead to the Australian Grand Prix at Phillip Island this weekend.   Thanks to Mitch Robinson and Supercars for the press conference audio. Joel Kelso headed to Mount Panorama on the way to hang out with his mate Broc Feeney at Triple 8 as well 2024 winner’s Erebus Motorsport.  It was fantastic to get the Moto3 racer on before the busiest week of his season. Head to Rusty's Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and give us your feedback and let us know who you want to hear from on Rusty's Garage

Respected Motorsport engineer and Data Analyst Scott Sinclair joins us at Bathurst to look at some of the key considerations for Sunday’s Great Race. He worked with James Courtney back in 2010 when he won the title for Dick Johnson Racing and listner’s may also know him from stints with the Holden Racing Team and more recently with Kelly Racing’s Nissan program. These days he lends his expertise to the Supercars TV team helping the commentators tell the strategic story of the races and he provides fans with excellent exclusive content for the sport’s official website. His latest column talks about what you need for success at the Bathurst 1000 and why it’s more than luck. https://www.supercars.com/news/expert-analysis-supercars-2025-bathurst-1000-strategy-explained-double-stack-pit-stop-ford-hopes Fittingly Rusty and Scott talked as it began to rain at Bathurst. From the impact of wet weather, the value of the pre-event track walk, tyres, safety cars, having a closely matched co-driver, pitstops for brakes and fuel, plus the benefit of a little motivational radio chat.   Enjoy some of the engineering considerations ahead of this weekend’s Bathurst 1000 which you can listen too on our sister network Triple M as Rusty joins Daniel Leach live from Mount Panorama for the top 10 shootout on Saturday and the big race on Sunday. Head to Rusty's Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and give us your feedback and let us know who you want to hear from on Rusty's Garage

Rusty is on the ground for this weekend’s F1 night race and he caught up with the world championship leader before the action gets underway. In something of an exclusive Piastri isn’t doing a huge amount of media here as he focuses on the title race. (We get it and we’re grateful he came on). How he feels about the tough weekend in Baku last time out and the way he processes those difficult moments. With Aussie sports fans struggling to understand McLaren’s ‘spirit of fairness’ approach between its two ultra competitive drivers Oscar explains the Papaya side and why they’re at peace with it. And how he’s stayed true to himself during a box office period for the sport and the incredible demands that go with it. Don’t miss this rapport filled chat between Rusty and Oscar Piastri ahead of one of the most critical races of the season.  Head to Rusty's Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and give us your feedback and let us know who you want to hear from on Rusty's Garage

We’re joined by Codesport’s Matt Hickey for a Grand Prix debrief after a weekend to forget for Oscar Piastri. Why he is in the best spot to bounce back mentally and in the race for the title. Is Max Verstappen now in the mix? Could this two horse race be about to face the ultimate disruptor? Liam Lawson’s drive of the season and the timely nature of his top five result.  Does RedBull have too many roosters in the henhouse? And the ultimate payday for Christian Horner. Will we see him in the paddock again and potentially where? Enjoy another easy going GP convo between Rusty & Hick’s.  Head to Rusty's Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and give us your feedback and let us know who you want to hear from on Rusty's Garage

Mark Winterbottom made a very memorable appearance on the pod 12 months ago but a bit has changed in his world since that Feature Episode. His role now as a codriver netted a podium first time out with his old race family at Tickford.  The battle between the coey’s and was there any initial rustiness? How much he’s enjoyed mentoring the team’s Super 2 drivers and the conversation he had with JB & Billy from the Rush Hour about his bakery buy. Plus his best selling biography - Frosty - the depths he went to over the 18 month writing period and why it was so cathartic. Will there be a new chapter to write after the Great Race at Bathurst next month? https://www.harpercollins.com.au/search-results/?contributor=mark-winterbottom Head to Rusty's Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and give us your feedback and let us know who you want to hear from on Rusty's Garage

Jayden joins the pod for the first time beaming in from Adelaide after a win in GT World Challenge Australia last weekend. He stayed on in South Oz ahead of this weekend’s Bend 500, the first of the Supercars enduros. We preview the big race which marks Ojeda’s return to Walkinshaw Andretti United. What it’s like working alongside another rising star in Ryan Wood and the training item Woody forgot to bring! How Jayden’s role as a Mercedes AMG junior came about and his determination to build on that program.  And how the hard road to get here has shaped Ojeda for a place in the sport that now feels more certain. Plus a 155k bike ride he’ll do in November and why he passionately supports it. https://dementiaresearchcommunity.com/ Head to Rusty's Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and give us your feedback and let us know who you want to hear from on Rusty's Garage

Full disclosure - there is nothing short about this edition of the shortcast.  Rusty is in the middle of nowhere (actually near Mildura) for the Sunraysia Safari. Just before competitors set off for 1200ks of cross country he caught up with Rob & Dean Herridge under Maximum Motorsport E-Z Up. What brings them back to this gruelling event and the ‘David n Goliath’ fight they wage in their Subaru’s including a new WRX. It’s a cool story of Father and Son rallying together in truly unique countryside on the edge of the desert. Then Tony Quinn joins us and we know how much you love a TQ catch-up. He’s come straight from Tailem Bend where his grandson Ryder turned heads with an epic drive in GT4. Tony talks about trying to win Sunraysia again in a Dakar spec V8 powered Navara. And he’s still keeping an eye on The Bend this weekend as his Triple 8 team tries to win the first of the Supercars enduros this season.  Rally fans, Supercars supporters, GT enthusiasts. There’s something for all of you in the ep. Enjoy. Head to Rusty's Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and give us your feedback and let us know who you want to hear from on Rusty's Garage.

Just like the great riders and drivers this is a story of a self taught artisan who passionately dedicates himself to the craft spending long hours every day to personalize helmets that could easily be on display in a gallery. Working with Chaz Mostert, Greg Murphy, James Courtney, Shane van Gisbergen and many more to capture and express their personalities and to keep bringing a freshness to each design. How his background was the perfect foundation for this unlikely career path and the Michael Schumacher replica that started it all. Expanding into custom trims to give each ‘lid’ that special touch. And why he won’t compromise on quality in the race to finish a number of new helmets ahead of the Supercars enduros. Checkout Antman Helmet Design on FaceBook and Instagram or go to https://www.antmanhelmetdesign.com/ Head to Rusty's Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and give us your feedback and let us know who you want to hear from on Rusty's Garage.

Codesport’s Matt Hickey is back in the Garage as F1 fires up for the 2nd half of the season. McLaren reckon their drivers are getting on well (unlike some of the other inter team rivalries over the years) but surely there’ll be a blow-up between Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri at some stage? Cadillac will give Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas the keys next year. Makes sense right? But can this new F1 team sneak a point or two and be better than ‘cellar dwellers’ in ’26? RedBull is currently 4th in the Constructor’s standings (is it crazy to think that) and while it’s not in Max Verstappen’s nature to wave the white flag surely the team will start to shift its focus to next season and the new regs. And while Daniel Riccardo recovers from a dirt bike crash hopefully he writes a wish list of post F1 Motorsport events he’d like a crack at….Bathurst anyone? It’s two blokes talking Motorsport with an F1 flavour as the sport’s summer break comes to an end and we rev up for the Dutch Grand Prix this weekend. Head to Rusty's Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and give us your feedback and let us know who you want to hear from on Rusty's Garage.

The Junior World Rally Championship leader joins us from his home away from home, Finland. At just 21 years of age the Aussie already talks like a seasoned pro and has crammed a lot into his career with some firm objectives in the next five years. The wildcard opportunity that helped him spread his wings and just how much is riding on the European Rally in October, the final round of the 2025 season. How Taylor has benefited from mental strength coaching in this intense sport and the value he places on seat time rather than SIM’s. The car he’ll drive back in Australia in the months ahead that will help him prepare for the next step and could we twist his arm for an ARC appearance while he’s back here? A middle name that he shares with a legend and the quest to join the likes of Sebastian Ogier, Elfyn Evans, Dani Sordo and more as a Junior World Rally Champion! Enjoy getting to know Taylor Gill and support his bid to win the JWRC title here https://www.taylorgillmotorsport.com/supporters Head to Rusty's Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and give us your feedback and let us know who you want to hear from on Rusty's Garage.

It’s panel discussion time. For this ep of the shortcast Rusty is joined by Tom Moore from Dick Johnson Racing and Trevor Long - the Tech and Gadget guru you may have seen on the Today Show. Trev is a massive Motorsport fan! There is so much talk around the exponential growth of AI at the moment and how it will change our lives, so what about Motorsport? Rusty moderates the convo to look at ways it is already working in the pitlane and wider industry as well as its potential. We decode Machine Learning, the part it’s playing and consider whether it could lead to job losses and create new ones in our game. How it can hallucinate at times, what causes it but also how it is significantly speeding up processes for teams. Why Supercars is well positioned for it’s growing involvement and whether rule makers might need to restrict or police it’s use for fairness. And perhaps most importantly how it might enhance the fan experience at events and for those watching the TV coverage. For the record we made Rusty write this ep description without the help of AI. Head to Rusty's Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and give us your feedback and let us know who you want to hear from on Rusty's Garage. 

The move to Team Green and why timing is everything. In many ways Robbie was ahead of the sport’s international growth curve. Losing a remote control plane over the aerospace division at Kawasaki HQ and please explains from their security. Hotrodding Golf Carts at Sugo and taking a bit of bark off. Wowing fans at home at Phillip Island and ballsy rides at Spa in Belgium. Waking up in hospital in France after one of around 200 career crashes but refusing to give up. Developing a cutting edge Norton powered bike to tackle Daytona and falling in love with racing all over again at the Island Classic. Plus his friendship with the great Peter Brock, how Johnny Harvey would run strategy for Robbie at some of the endurance races, and trail riding with Jimmy Richards. And there’s a little known story of Larry Perkins throwing his leg over a Katana and holding it wide open. If you enjoy straight talk, a good laugh and yarns about a cool era of racing this is a must listen! Head to Rusty's Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and give us your feedback and let us know who you want to hear from on Rusty's Garage. 

Cutting laps of Albury Airport after dark and showing fearless talent on the dirt. Captivating stories of racing during a golden period that included names like Mick Doohan, Graeme Crosby, Aaron Slight (who are all in the Rusty’s Garage library), the late Gregg Hansford and many more. Doing it on a shoestring, winning against the odds and all while having fun. Meeting Mick Hone and ‘honing’ his own race craft on the way to titles and some special wins in legendary Australian races. Forming lasting friendships with Moriwaki and Pops Yoshimura as the door to Japan opened. Plus his “Ideas Factory”, from home built spas to modified jet skis and the invariable chaos that ensued. This is a life lived at full throttle and the yarns on the bike are just as gripping as those off it.  Robbie tells them well. A big thanks to Roger ‘Spud’ Arnold for hosting us.  We sat round some of Robbie’s restored old race bikes for this one along with his mates Neil Bird, Albert Te Hennepe and the energetic Phillis Jack Russell’s ‘Molly’ and ‘Herbie’.

With F1 starting a much needed summer break the NZ Herald’s Alex Powell joins us with some thoughts on the sport he loves. Lando Norris is looking stronger as the 2025 title fight seesaws between the McLaren drivers. Drawing parallels with the 2016 championship battle between the then Mercedes drivers as Lando and Oscar Piastri make this a clear two horse race. Why Liam Lawson will be on the grid in 2026 and it’s not just his current form rebound that justifies it! Some perspective on Yuki Tsunoda and the second RedBull seat as Lewis Hamilton appears to be losing the race against time. Plus backing Kimi Antonelli for the long term in a world that wants instant results. Oh and some thoughts on Louis Sharp in F3, Shane van Gisbergen getting the hang of NASCAR ovals and Scott McLaughlin coming back stronger from a wretched year in Indycar. Head to Rusty's Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and give us your feedback and let us know who you want to hear from on Rusty's Garage. 

It’s been a big 24 hours in the Supercars paddock with the final piece of the endurance driver line-up locked away - Nash Morris joins us on the pod for the first time to talk about it. The selection process he went through at Premiair and why he was no certainty to get the co-driver’s job alongside former Bathurst winner Richie Stanaway. Nash also shares a funny yarn on what made him change course and follow a race driver career path back in 2019. This is a radio-style newsy ep so we have not one but two interviews for you in this edition.  RedBull Ampol Racing’s Mark Dutton also joins us to talk about fencing in Broc Feeney and Will Brown until the end of the decade! A move that caught a few of us by surprise. Were they at risk of ‘poacher’s moving in and how the Ford Mustang project is coming along ahead of the team’s big switch in 2026. Plus the latest on their wildcard after Zach Bate’s test at Queensland Raceway in recent days as the legendary Craig Lowndes chapter with the squad nears an end. Oh and some thoughts on the F1 commentary leaning into ‘British Bias’ despite Oscar Piastri’s dominance at Spa and why we might have to accept that’s just the way it is for now. Head to Rusty's Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and give us your feedback and let us know who you want to hear from on Rusty's Garage. 

The comeback from a frightening crash in South Australia and the moment he realized it was time to get back on the horse. Hustling a two wheel drive on the way to the Australian title in 2014 and a little sentimental attachment to that Renault Clio which is still in the garage. Challenging himself on the world stage in a Ford Fiesta R5 machine and why Scott is rightly proud of the performance in Finland including an insane jump that wowed the crowd! Plus the incredible Pedder’s suspension story from his Grandfather channeling skills he learned working on planes in WWII to his father’s early adoption of franchise formulas not all that long after McDonalds. And a managerial change in a milestone year for the company. There some breaking news too around Scott’s immediate future after a crash in Queensland ended his chances of adding another Australian title to the rally CV. How he plans to be in the moment and enjoy the beauty and pure exhilaration of competing in Tassie in November. And the ‘Trading Places’ story you may not have heard. Letting Will Brown and Brodie Kostecki drive his Skoda Rally car before Erebus let Scott loose in the Supercar on a wet and wild day at Calder Park. Head to Rusty's Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and give us your feedback and let us know who you want to hear from on Rusty's Garage. 

This is a timely Feature Episode with an ageless star of the Australian Rally Championship who’s been fast and successful across several eras of competition. Sharing co-driving duties with his brother until Mum said “no more”. The Ford Escort that properly started the journey and reaching an early crossroads after demonstrating serious talent in tennis against the likes of Mark Philippoussis.  A top 10 finish in the legendary Round Australia Trial with his Dad and late nights on the road hanging out with an icon, Peter Brock. Harnessing everything that was great about the family rally team and knowing when he could go toe-to-toe with the guns of the ARC. And sage advice from Ed Ordynski who showed him the way to take what he thought was a 3rd gear corner in 5th!!   This two-parter isn’t just for rally fans but you’ll be left in no doubt of the deep passion Scott has for the Australian series and he is his own toughest critic.   Head to Rusty's Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and give us your feedback and let us know who you want to hear from on Rusty's Garage.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Walkinshaw Andretti United team owner checks in to give fans an update on the Supra GR & when it will hit the track for the first time. Why a stable driver line-up is so important as the team gets ready to make the big switch. The part Chaz Mostert has played in recent years in galvanizing the squad. And the emergence of Ryan Wood.  Rusty & Ryan Walkinshaw also talk enduro pairings & the return of Jayden Ojeda. Plus what it meant having Greg Murphy on the ground with WAU for the Perth round. What’s inside the impressive new Walkinshaw Group facility where the race team will be based? And some ‘state of the nation’ observations of the sport. This was meant to be a shortcast but Ryan was so good with his time including a sentimental wish when they farewell Ford at season’s end. You’ll really enjoy this ep! Head to Rusty's Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and give us your feedback and let us know who you want to hear from on Rusty's Garage.

James Allen from Motorsport.com joins Rusty to try and make sense of Christian Horner’s sacking now that some of the dust has settled. Is this the end of the biggest story of the Formula 1 season or is there another twist still to come? Why following Max Verstappen’s private jet flight path and Toto Wolff’s Sardinia sailing route makes absolutely no sense during this mid season break. The logical play Max might make ahead of the sport’s big 2026 regulation change as well as the little known ‘flare up’ between Christian & Jos Verstappen after Silverstone.  Rusty & James also ponder the future of Ferrari team boss Fred Vasseur and will Lewis Hamilton win a GP in red this year?  Plus how will McLaren manage two incredibly talented drivers in Aussie Oscar Piastri & Lando Norris during the 2nd half of the season, especially now that Lando has shown a new level of psychological strength.  This is one of the best summaries you will find anywhere on the interweb as the respected & articulate former F1 commentator James Allen shares his paddock insights. Head to Rusty's Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and give us your feedback and let us know who you want to hear from on Rusty's Garage.