Payne's NASCAR bid blocked as Ford-Chevrolet rivalry intensifies

Supercars driver Matt Payne has been denied permission to compete in a NASCAR Cup Series wildcard appearance later this month, after his Ford-affiliated Grove Racing team blocked the move on contractual grounds. The decision has exposed growing tensions between manufacturers vying for control of emerging talent in Australian motorsport.

Simulator testing allegations surface

The dispute has intensified following reports that Payne undertook simulator testing with Chevrolet in the United States prior to the proposed NASCAR appearance. If confirmed, such testing could constitute a breach of his Grove Racing contract, which runs through the end of 2027.

MotorRacing 360 panellist James Phelps said the New Zealander appeared to be further along in discussions with General Motors than initially understood.