Reigning Porsche Paynter Dixon Carrera Cup Australia Champion and current Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup driver, Harri Jones, is returning to the Australian one-make championship in October this year, in what will be familiar colours but a brand-new team.

Jones is currently living and racing in Europe, competing in the Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup and Carrera Cup Germany, with top teams BWT Lechner Racing and Scherer Sport PHX respectively.

He is returning to Australia for two of the most iconic rounds of the season – the Repco Bathurst 1000 and Boost Mobile Gold Coast 500 – however for the first time will be driving under his own team, Jones Motorsport.

The Queenslander will be racing in familiar colours, with existing major partners Hastings Deering and MacKellar Group backing the youngster’s new endeavour.

“The Bathurst 1000 and Gold Coast 500 are two events I always look forward to most on the Carrera Cup Australia Calendar,” says Jones.

“I’m so excited to be returning as the reigning Champion and to expand our team with the support of our amazing major partners, Hastings Deering and MacKellar Group.”

Reflecting on his time in Europe so far, Jones has grown immensely through the intense level of competition across both the Supercup and Carrera Cup Germany championships.

“My time in Europe so far has been incredible,” says Jones. “I’ve been fortunate enough to join forces with the best teams in Porsche one-make racing worldwide and race in not one, but two incredibly competitive championships.

“I’ve developed so much as a racing driver and have gained so much experience within the sport. I’m confident that we will be able to put that all to good use and showcase our team back on home soil.”

MacKellar Group and Hastings Deering were pivotal to Harri’s success in the 2022 Championship through their support and have remained by his side throughout his European debut.

“I’m so grateful for the continued support from my partners and their commitment to backing me through this next phase of my racing career,” says Jones.

“This year marks five years with the MacKellar Group and my second year partnering with Hastings Deering. Both companies have really embraced the partnership across their respective teams, which has been brilliant for me to also be a part of personally.

“I’m so excited to be racing again on home soil, in front of my partners, friends and family. It’s certainly something I’ve missed a lot whilst overseas. And to be coming back to race for my own team adds a whole new level to it, I honestly can’t wait.”

Speaking about the ongoing partnership, Jason Smith, Executive General Manager – Resource Industries of Hastings Deering, said, “We are extremely proud to continue our partnership with Harri Jones.”

“Harri embodies the qualities and values that resonate deeply with our company. His commitment to excellence, tireless work ethic, and passion for motorsport aligns perfectly with our own dedication to delivering outstanding machinery solutions to our customers.”

Having supported Harri since his debut in Porsche racing back in 2019, MacKellar Group are also excited to see him back on the Aussie racing circuit.

“As MacKellar Group extends its support to Harri Jones for another exhilarating season, we are immensely proud to stand side by side with a fearless driver whose determination and unwavering passion embody the values we hold dear,” said Chairman, Duncan MacKellar.

“Together, we drive towards excellence, pushing boundaries, and achieving remarkable victories on and off the track.”

In the first few races of his debut year overseas, Jones has already made his mark on the European racing scene. Classified as a Rookie within both Championships, he has already claimed 5 Rookie podiums and multiple top 5 outright finishes.

With a bright future ahead of him, it’s clear that Jones’ talent continues to shine through among the best, no matter the geography.

The Bathurst 1000 will be held from October 5-8 followed by the Gold Coast 500 three weeks later from October 27-29.