Stewart rewarded for enduro performances

JOBE STEWART has taken another critical step in his motor racing career, securing a full time Supercars drive in 2026, alongside his Bathurst codrive Cooper Murray for Erebus Motorsport.

The 21-year-old Mount Gambier based talent will be promoted into the seat currently filled by Jack Le Brocq, who has announced he will be switching back to Matt Stone Racing.

It is a contract well-earned for Stewart who was impressive on debut in the Enduro Cup as co-driver to Murray, which netted seventh at The Bend 500 and fourth at the Bathurst 1000.

Speaking to Stefan Bartholomaeus, from Speedcafe, Erebus CEO Barry Ryan said Jobe had earned this opportunity.

“He’s been part of the Erebus family for a long time and has developed into a complete driver through hard work and consistency,” Ryan said.

“His results in Super2 and his performances across the endurance season showed he’s ready to take the next step.

“We’re really proud to see another of our Academy drivers progress all the way to the main game, that’s what the program is all about.”

Stewart has been part of the Erebus Academy program since he was 13 years old and has workd his way through Australia’s motor racing pathways, including the Toyota 86, Super3 and Super2 system.

“It’s been a long journey to get here, but one I’ve loved every step of the way,” Stewart said. “Erebus has been my home since I was a kid and to now be stepping into the #9 Camaro full-time is something really special.

“From 86s to Super3 and Super2, the Academy and the team has given me every opportunity to learn and grow, both on and off the track.

“I’ve learned a lot working alongside Cooper this season too and I can’t wait to hit the ground running next year.”

Erebus owner Betty Klimenko hailed Stewart’s progression as proof of the academy program’s merit.

“When we created the Erebus Academy, it wasn’t about ticking a box, it was about building a genuine pathway for young people in motorsport,” Klimenko said. “Jobe’s journey is the perfect example of what can happen when you give someone the opportunity and the support to grow.

“I’ve watched him come through every stage of this team and to now see him moving into a full-time seat is incredibly rewarding.

“It’s proof that what we’re building is working and that the future of Erebus, and the sport, is in good hands.”

The pairing of Stewart and Murray (pictured above), 24, will likely give Erebus the youngest combination on the grid.

“I’ve known Jobe for a few years now and watched him come through the ranks. He’s fast, switched on and a great teammate,” Murray said. “We worked really well together this year and I think we’ll push each other in the right way next season.

“It’s going to be exciting to be part of one of the youngest driver pairings on the grid and I know the whole team will be behind us, so I’m really looking forward to seeing what we can all achieve together next year.”