Connor Halligan’s Wild D1NZ Championship Chase

What a season it’s been for BurgerFuel-backed driver Connor Halligan.

From massive road trips and late-night repairs to huge speeds and intense battles, the 2025/26 D1NZ season kept everyone on their toes right through to the final round.

Connor came out swinging at Teretonga Raceway in Invercargill, qualifying first and finishing second in both opening rounds despite dealing with radiator and alternator issues nearly all weekend. It was clear from the start that he had serious pace this season.

Then came the return to Pukekohe Raceway for the final ever motorsport event at the legendary circuit. The weekend threw just about everything at the team with gearbox failures, borrowed parts and late-night rebuilds, but Connor still managed to qualify first again. He also recorded an insane 211km/h drift entry speed, one of the fastest ever seen at the track.

Gisborne was the turning point.

With the car finally feeling reliable and dialled in, Connor absolutely delivered, qualifying first with a massive 99.16 score before taking his first event win of the season. That result pushed him into the championship lead heading into the Baypark finale in Tauranga.

The final round had an unreal atmosphere from the beginning, including a police-escorted cruise through Mount Maunganui before the weekend got underway. Connor locked in P2 during qualifying and looked strong heading into battle day.

Unfortunately, during a crucial battle against fellow title contender Ben Jenkins, lingering tyre smoke through the wallride section completely blocked visibility. Connor clipped the wall and rolled the car, ending both his event and championship hopes instantly.

Even with the dramatic finish, Connor secured an incredible second overall in the 2026 D1NZ Championship after one of the toughest and most exciting seasons of his career.

We’re seriously proud to support Connor and the whole team. The work ethic, determination and ability to keep pushing through setbacks all season has been unreal to watch. Keeping Connor and the crew fuelled up through the long days and late nights at the track has been a small part of an epic season to be involved in.

We already can’t wait to see what next season brings!

Photo credit - In The Frame Media, KCL Photography, Chelsea Media Co and Aaron Yates Photo