H6 Cup Welcomes Fern Energy as Title Sponsor for 2026

The newest addition to the New Zealand rally calendar, the H6 Cup, has confirmed Fern Energy as its title sponsor for the 2026 season.

Built around the Subaru Impreza fitted with a six-cylinder H6 engine, the one-make H6 Cup has quickly established itself as one of the most competitive and entertaining categories in New Zealand rallying. The South Island-based series delivered some of the closest racing seen in recent seasons.

The announcement follows a highly successful 2025 season, which saw competitors travel from Wyndham to Cheviot, more than 1.7 million social media views, and a strong field of 10 different entrants headlining the series. The 2026 season builds on that momentum, welcoming a mix of emerging young talent, established champions, and a new commercial partner.

“Our goal has always been to provide a customer-friendly series that acts as a feeder class for future rallying opportunities,” said H6 Cup promoter Jack Smith. “Tim Smith and I have deliberately focused on cost control and value — two principles that have defined the H6 Cup from day one.”

Joining the series for 2026 is Fern Energy, a fuel supplier servicing rural and remote communities across New Zealand. Fern Energy is focused on connecting with its customers through unique experiences, and sees strong alignment with the values and community spirit of the H6 Cup.

“We’re delighted to be teaming up with what is arguably the fastest-growing category in New Zealand rallying,” said Simon Rae, Chief Retail and Marketing Officer at Fern Energy. “As the largest supplier of bulk fuel to farms and agribusinesses, many of our customers have a genuine passion for motorsport.”

“Importantly, our Fern Energy H6 Cup sponsorship will give more than 60 lucky customers the opportunity to experience the thrill of rallying firsthand, riding in the passenger seat of an H6 Impreza during the season.”

The 2026 field is shaping up to be the strongest yet, featuring rising stars including Josh Keighley (second in the 2025 H6 Cup), Thomas Paul (Otago Rally 1300/1300c class winner), and reigning H6 Cup champion Tim Smith. Fellow young contender James McIver is also set to challenge. Experience will be added by 2001 Group National Rally Champion Deborah Kibble and 2025 Category 5 National Rally Champion Ben Huband. Up to 17 cars are expected to line up across the six-round season.

The 2026 Fern Energy H6 Cup will begin in Greymouth at the Westland Rally on March 28, with six events scheduled on the calendar.