The Undercut – Fuelling the feuds in Supercars!
About this episode
A wide-ranging Supercars-focused chat mixes personality, rivalry, and race analysis. Aaron Noon and Jack Perkins kick off with the “swoop” haircut debate, then celebrate Ryan Wood as a standout performer (plus NASCAR first-win stories for Ty Gibbs and Kai Allen). The big on-track talking point is the Chaz Mostert vs Brodie Kostecki incident and what it says about championship pressure, media timing, and driver accountability. They also debate “a-grade” driver depth (Chev vs Toyota), Rua Puna’s suitability for Supercars, parity-trigger concerns, Gen3’s cost vs success, and even commentary production choices—ending with tributes to Terry Sawyer and Barry Sheene.
Chevrolet Equinox
"The 2026 Chevy Equinox is more than an SUV, it's your Sunday tailgate and your parking lot snack bar... It's more than an SUV, it's your Equinox."
The Chevrolet Equinox is a regular SUV model from Chevrolet. They’re basically saying it’s a useful everyday car that can also handle fun stuff like tailgates and carrying gear.
The Chevrolet Equinox is a compact SUV crossover from Chevrolet. In this segment, the hosts frame it as more than just transportation—positioning it as a practical vehicle for tailgating, errands, and road trips.
the undercut
"Great to have you with us, it's time for the undercut. There is so much to talk about... I'm Aaron Noon and the guy across the desk is Jack Perkins."
“The undercut” is the name of the part of the show where they start the main discussion. In racing, it can also mean a pit-stop strategy, but here it’s mainly setting up the segment.
“The undercut” is used here as the show’s segment name—signaling the hosts are about to get into the main discussion. In racing terms, an undercut is also a strategy where a car pits earlier to gain track position, but the transcript is primarily using it as a chapter marker.
motor racing chat
"But before we get into anything, any motor racing chat, any Rua Puna chat, any Topor chat, the hair, it has been the biggest topic out of the first episode of the year."
They’re telling you that before anything else, they’ll talk about racing. It’s basically a heads-up that the show is about motorsport.
The hosts reference “motor racing chat” as a lead-in to the episode’s content. This is a structural cue that the conversation will shift into racing-related topics (series, rivalries, or on-track strategy).
doubleheader in New Zealand for supercars
"We've got heaps to talk about, he's going with a doubleheader in New Zealand for supercars. As always on this show, we'd like to start with our Castro performer of the week..."
A doubleheader is basically two races scheduled close together. Teams have to plan for both races in a row, so tires, car setup, and driver energy all matter over the whole weekend.
A doubleheader means two race events (or rounds) are held back-to-back over a short period. In Supercars, that can affect strategy because teams have to manage setup changes, tire use, and driver fatigue across both rounds.
Jason Richards trophy
"...Brian Wood, who came like that close to winning the Jason Richards trophy, first win for Toyota in top or the previous weekend..."
The Jason Richards Trophy is an award in Supercars based on points. Instead of just winning one race, you earn it by doing well across multiple rounds.
The Jason Richards Trophy is a Supercars season award tied to points performance across a defined set of rounds. When the host says someone came close to winning it, they’re referring to a points race rather than a single-event win.
most points across the two rounds
"...was on target to have the most points across the two rounds to win that trophy."
That phrase means the winner is the driver who scores the most points over two races. It’s not only about winning one race; doing well in both can decide the outcome.
This describes a points-based championship/trophy system where performance is measured by total points accumulated over multiple rounds. It changes how teams approach each race—sometimes consistency can matter as much as outright wins.
on track success
"I think we've got it with him and then you couple that with on track success and capability being perfect."
It just means how well someone performs during the actual races. The hosts are saying he’s doing well not only in interviews, but also when the car is on track.
“On track success” refers to measurable performance during races—lap times, consistency, and finishing results. In motorsport discussions, it’s often contrasted with off-track skills like media presence to describe a well-rounded driver.
race smart people
"But you put them in the car, they are the most race smart people you will ever come across."
It means the driver is good at thinking through the race, not just driving fast. They make smart choices during the race when things get complicated.
“Race smart” describes drivers who understand strategy and decision-making—when to push, when to manage tires/fuel, and how to read traffic. It’s less about raw speed alone and more about making good calls under pressure.
Castrol
"So I feel he's my Castrol performer of the fortnight. Have you got a Castrol performer of the week or from our little chat in WhatsApp in the lead-up to this show, I've got a sense that you've got a bit of a performers of the week going this week."
Castrol is a company that makes engine oils and other car fluids. In this show, they’re using the Castrol name for a “performer” award, like a spotlight on a driver’s week. It’s basically a sponsor-backed way to recognize who stood out.
Castrol is an automotive lubricant brand (oil and related products) that sponsors motorsport coverage and often appears in “performer of the week/fortnight” style segments. When the host calls someone a “Castrol performer,” it’s a branded way of highlighting standout performances or notable stories. It’s common for sponsors to tie their name to recurring fan-facing awards.
first time winners
"Well it's a bit the same in the sense of it's a fortnight thing but what I love in motorsport and obviously all sport as well but particularly motorsport is first time winners."
They’re highlighting when someone wins a race for the first time. In racing, that’s a major milestone because it usually means everything finally clicked—driver, team, and car. Fans and teams often celebrate it in a big way.
The hosts are talking about “first time winners” in motorsport—drivers or teams winning a race for the first time. It’s a big deal because it often signals a breakthrough in performance, strategy, or car setup. The celebration can become part of the sport’s culture and fan identity.
first win
"...you made a T-shirt for your first win didn't you? ...the two performers of the fortnight... picking up his first win..."
A “first win” means the driver finally wins a race for the first time. It’s a big moment because it proves they can compete at that level, and everyone celebrates it.
A “first win” in motorsport is a key psychological and career milestone—often celebrated intensely because it validates a driver’s progress and team strategy. The hosts highlight how the celebrations and reactions are part of the sport’s culture.
NASCAR Cup Series
"...was Ty Gibbs picking up his first win in the NASCAR Cup Series. He'd done 131 Cup Series starts to date so it was coming..."
NASCAR’s Cup Series is the biggest, most important stock-car racing league in the U.S. Winning your first race there is a huge deal because it means you can compete with the best drivers.
The NASCAR Cup Series is the top-level stock-car racing series in the United States. When a driver gets their first win in the Cup Series, it’s a major milestone because the competition is the highest level NASCAR offers.
Xfinity Series races
"...Ty helped me a lot personally prepare for the two Xfinity Series races I did last year."
The Xfinity Series is NASCAR’s “step below” the top Cup Series. It’s where drivers build experience and show they’re ready for bigger races.
The Xfinity Series is NASCAR’s second-tier national series, sitting below the Cup Series. Drivers often use it as a proving ground—strong results can lead to more opportunities at the Cup level.
JGR team
"...I obviously followed the JGR team with serious interest and just to see that kid..."
JGR (Joe Gibbs Racing) is a well-known NASCAR racing team. Having a strong team behind you can help a driver practice, learn, and get better results.
JGR refers to Joe Gibbs Racing, a major NASCAR team. The transcript ties it to Ty Gibbs and the family connection, emphasizing how team support and resources can shape a driver’s development.
Supercars feuds
"to just see what it means to both of them. Just to watch their celebrations, both unique and different in their own respects and to thank the various people that have helped them. That is what it's all about."
They’re discussing rivalries in Supercars racing—basically, how drivers compete against each other and how those battles turn into big career moments. The episode is using race results and personal stories to explain why the rivalry matters.
The hosts are talking about rivalries (“feuds”) in Australian Supercars racing and how those competitive relationships play out through wins, mentorship, and celebrations. It’s framed as a story of two drivers and the moments that shaped their careers.
race boots
"Kai's got those race boots, sneaker things going here. Bush is a well, he's just main game with Erebus full time by that stage."
Race boots are special shoes drivers wear to feel the pedals better and keep their feet steady. They’re designed so you can press the pedals precisely without your foot sliding around.
“Race boots” are specialized footwear designed for motorsport pedal feel and safety. They typically have a stiff sole and grip to help drivers make precise inputs while reducing the risk of foot slippage.
Erebus
"Bush is a well, he's just main game with Erebus full time by that stage. Kai's learning the ropes."
Erebus is a well-known racing team in Australia. Saying a driver is “with Erebus full time” means they’re driving for that team regularly, not just as a one-off.
Erebus is a prominent Australian motorsport team/brand in Supercars. When the hosts say someone is “with Erebus full time,” they’re indicating a major step up to a regular seat with a top-level outfit.
learning the ropes
"Kai's learning the ropes. How is it that it all turns out that he beats Brody to win his first race?"
“Learning the ropes” means getting used to a new, tougher level of racing. It’s the phase where a driver figures out how everything works—car setup, race strategy, and team communication.
“Learning the ropes” describes a driver’s early adjustment period when moving into a higher level of competition. It usually involves adapting to faster cars, stronger competition, and the team’s race-week routines.
Super 3
"I remember watching him in potentially Super 3 and Garth Tannac commentating one of the racers saying at one of the go-kart awards nights,"
Super 3 is a lower-level racing series that helps drivers build skills before moving up. The host is saying they’ve seen the driver compete there before they reached the bigger stage.
“Super 3” refers to a junior Australian racing category that many drivers use as a stepping stone toward top-tier Supercars. It’s mentioned here to give context to the host’s past viewing of the driver’s development.
Garth Tannac
"I remember watching him in potentially Super 3 and Garth Tannac commentating one of the racers saying at one of the go-kart awards nights,"
Garth Tannac is mentioned as someone who commentated on the racing. Commentators help explain what’s happening on track so viewers can follow the action.
Garth Tannac is mentioned as a commentator, which highlights the role of media coverage in motorsport. Commentators often shape how audiences understand racing by explaining driver progress and race context.
go-kart awards nights
"one of the racers saying at one of the go-kart awards nights, just about war at the carpet going up to the stage to get all these awards. So fantastic for him and his whole family."
Go-kart awards nights are part of grassroots motorsport culture where young drivers are recognized for performance and progression. These events often mark early talent development before drivers move into higher categories.
podium
"[488.5s] And I've got a feeling that he's going to get another one not too far away [490.8s] because he just kept finding the podium. [492.9s] He was literally wearing out the podium like he did the cup at that night for the carding."
The podium is where the top three finishers stand after the race. If someone keeps getting on it, they’re consistently finishing near the front.
A “podium” is the top-three finish in a race, typically awarded to the first, second, and third place drivers. When the host says he was “wearing out the podium,” it implies repeated strong results rather than a one-off finish.
closing couple of laps
"[521.2s] Chas Moster, Brody Kostecki, Sunday race. [523.7s] Was that a statement by Chas what unfolded in those closing couple of laps? [531.1s] Well, it's hard to say whether it's a statement or just a bit of blowing off some steam"
“Closing couple of laps” refers to the final stretch of a race, when positions are decided and drivers are most aggressive. In racing analysis, late-race behavior often indicates strategy, tire management, and how drivers respond to frustration or pressure.
Red Cross
"[531.1s] Well, it's hard to say whether it's a statement or just a bit of blowing off some steam [536.4s] from frustration, to be honest with you. [538.4s] I think Chas had had a terrible weekend at Red Cross."
“Red Cross” appears to be a race venue or event name in the Supercars calendar being referenced as where Chas had a terrible weekend. Venue-specific track characteristics can strongly affect car setup and driver performance.
rectus scale
"[553.1s] And I think by the end of the weekend, when he got himself into a reasonable position, [559.0s] yeah, I think, you know, one little interaction with Brody just sent him off the rectus scale [564.9s] and he decided to give him something back and more."
This sounds like a description of a driver getting thrown off their line or getting into trouble after an interaction. In racing, even a small contact can ruin your speed and your chances for the rest of the race.
“Rectus scale” sounds like a mis-transcription of a racing phrase describing going off-course or getting sent wide/into trouble. In Supercars, small interactions late in a race can cause a driver to lose momentum, position, and sometimes the rest of their race.
post-race conversations
"And, you know, you've seen from the post-race conversations. I don't think he meant for what happened to happen."
After a race, drivers and teams talk about what happened. If someone thinks another driver acted unfairly, those comments can turn into a bigger argument.
“Post-race conversations” refers to what drivers and teams say immediately after an event—often about incidents, penalties, or on-track behavior. In supercars, these comments can fuel public feuds and influence how fans and media interpret a controversial move.
frustration
"But certainly it comes from frustration, mate. You know, I think he's just wants to be the number. He's got the number one in his car and he's currently the number two in the team. So he's frustrated."
They’re saying the driver was upset, and that can make people take bigger risks. When you really want a result, emotions can push you into mistakes.
The hosts connect driver frustration to decision-making under pressure. In racing, frustration can lead to riskier moves—especially when a driver is fighting for a specific position or championship/trophy outcome.
trophies on the line
"And, you know, I was going to say that the move from Brody came from the fact that once Ryan would dropped out, the trophies on the line, the Jason Richards Memorial trophies on the line."
They mean the race matters a lot because it affects who wins an award. When there’s something big to win, drivers often push harder.
“Trophies on the line” describes a high-stakes situation where the outcome of a race directly affects standings or awards. When trophies are at stake, drivers may take more aggressive risks to secure the necessary position.
Jason Richards Memorial trophies
"...the trophies on the line, the Jason Richards Memorial trophies on the line. And I think at an angle that hasn't been really explored in all of this, that occurred to me the other day."
They’re talking about a special trophy connected to Jason Richards. The point is that the prize made the drivers more motivated to fight hard.
The “Jason Richards Memorial trophies” are a specific award tied to the event being discussed. Mentioning them frames why the drivers’ actions mattered—this wasn’t just racing for position, it was racing for a meaningful prize.
move at turn two
"...to the lengths that Brody did with that move at turn two, which were very, very forceful to win that trophy. That trophy means something because otherwise he doesn't launch that move..."
They’re describing an action that happened at a particular corner of the track. Moves at specific turns are often judged more harshly because the conditions there make them easier or harder to pull off safely.
A “move at turn two” refers to an overtaking or defensive maneuver executed at a specific corner. Corner-specific aggression matters because the available racing line, traction, and sightlines determine how forceful (and risky) a pass can be.
final series
"So when the finals come around or a bath is wins on the line or anything else that matters, I'll give as good as I get. It could be. And I think we covered a bit of this off in our previous undercut"
“Final series” here refers to the end-of-season championship phase where results in the last races can decide the title. That changes how drivers approach risk: they may defend harder, time moves more carefully, or accept short-term losses to protect points. The episode frames this as the pressure cooker that turns on-track incidents into bigger rivalries.
driving standards
"where we spoke about the drivers finding the limitations of the driving standards, ..."
“Driving standards” in motorsport usually means the expected level of driving behavior—how aggressively drivers can race while still staying within rules and stewards’ interpretations. When drivers “find the limitations,” they’re testing where the boundary is between acceptable contact/defense and penalties. That’s especially relevant when the goal is to set up for a final championship run.
bumper
"So maybe think about next time you go and pass me or use my bumper. Maybe you'll do something different."
In racing talk, “bumper” usually refers to the front or rear of a car used during close racing and contact. The transcript suggests using someone’s bumper as a reference for aggressive passing—i.e., contact or pressure that can lead to off-track outcomes and penalties.
dumps him down the order
"OK, 30 second penalty, dumps him down the order. But what it does for the bigger picture, he doesn't lose the championship because of that race."
When you get a penalty, you often fall behind other cars. That’s what they mean by “dumps him down the order”—you’re no longer in the same spot you were running.
“Dumps him down the order” describes how a time penalty immediately changes track position relative to other competitors. Even if the penalized driver doesn’t retire, losing position can affect points, strategy, and the ability to challenge for the championship later.
30 second penalty
"OK, 30 second penalty, dumps him down the order. But what it does for the bigger picture, he doesn't lose the championship because of that race."
Sometimes race officials add extra time to a driver’s result. A “30-second penalty” means the driver effectively loses time, so they can fall behind other cars in the race order.
A 30-second penalty is a time penalty added to a driver’s race time (or served via a stop/go procedure), which drops them down the running order. In series like Supercars, these penalties are often used to punish contact or unsafe driving and can have major knock-on effects even if the driver still finishes the race.
championship points
"But what it does for the bigger picture, he doesn't lose the championship because of that race. I mean, we saw last year, he did not finish at Bathurst and still won the championship. So coughing up some points at, you know, round four of the championship, the final race is not going to be the end of the world in terms of the championship."
In racing championships, you don’t just race for one win—you earn points across many events. Losing points from one race can hurt, but it might still be recoverable later.
Championship points are the scoring system that determines the season winner across multiple rounds, not just a single race. The transcript frames the penalty as costly in the short term (“coughing up some points”) but not necessarily fatal because the driver still has remaining rounds to recover.
engine issue
"Now, we all know there was an engine issue with the car at Adelaide for Brock Feeney. Ultimately, that's what cost him the championship."
They mean something went wrong with the engine. In racing, engine trouble is a big deal because it can slow the car down or even stop it from finishing, which can cost championship points.
An “engine issue” is a mechanical failure or malfunction that prevents the engine from performing correctly—anything from misfires to overheating or internal damage. In a racing championship, engine problems are especially costly because they can force reduced performance, retirements, or missed qualifying/finishing opportunities.
Adelaide
"Now, we all know there was an engine issue with the car at Adelaide for Brock Feeney. Ultimately, that's what cost him the championship."
They’re talking about a specific race in Adelaide. If a car has a mechanical problem there, it can cost a driver big points and hurt their chances to win the championship.
“Adelaide” refers to the Adelaide race where Brock Feeney’s car had an engine issue. In motorsport, a single technical problem at a key event can swing the championship outcome because it affects points and reliability across the season.
bury that hatchet
"But I think he just he's going to die. I think he probably not prepared to bury that hatchet maybe until he wins a championship."
“Bury that hatchet” is an idiom meaning to end a feud and move on. In the context of the podcast, it’s used to describe how rival drivers/teams may not resolve tensions until a major goal—like winning a championship—is achieved.
organic rivalry
"And it's real. It's organic. [1069.1s] And it comes because of the finals format at the core. [1073.0s] If you wind it all the way back to where did this thing?"
An “organic” rivalry is one that grows naturally from on-track events and repeated competitive interactions, rather than being manufactured by media hype. The hosts argue that the finals format and specific incidents (like Adelaide) are what created the rivalry.
finals format
"And it comes because of the finals format at the core. [1073.0s] If you wind it all the way back to where did this thing? [1076.7s] It starts because of the finals."
They’re saying the way the championship finals are set up affects who ends up racing who. That can lead to more drama because the stakes are higher and the matchups are tighter.
The hosts are talking about how the sport’s finals/knockout-style structure creates pressure and matchups that can spark rivalries. In racing, the format can change who you’re racing directly, when contact happens, and how grudges form.
engine drama
"The way that Adelaide unfolded, the way that the engine drama, [1083.2s] the contact on the first lap, blah, blah, blah, blah, blah."
“Engine drama” is shorthand for problems or failures related to the powertrain during a race weekend—things like misfires, overheating, or mechanical issues that affect performance. In motorsport coverage, these moments often become part of the rivalry narrative because they can change outcomes or lead to contact.
contact on the first lap
"The way that Adelaide unfolded, the way that the engine drama, [1083.2s] the contact on the first lap, blah, blah, blah, blah, blah."
They’re talking about a crash or bump right at the start of the race. Those early incidents often lead to arguments because everyone’s still close together and positions are being fought for.
First-lap contact is a common catalyst for long-running feuds in racing because it happens when the field is bunched up and drivers are fighting for position. Early incidents can also influence later strategy, penalties, and how teams interpret intent vs accident.
Ford
"We have got a great organic one here with two young guys, Ozzy and Kiwi, [1098.3s] Ford and Toyota, Triple Eight and Walcons shores. [1101.0s] It allows really well."
Ford is the car brand involved in this Supercars rivalry. When big brands like Ford and Toyota are competing, it can make rivalries feel bigger and more intense.
Ford is one of the major manufacturers in Supercars, and manufacturer rivalries often add fuel to driver/team feuds. The hosts are framing the rivalry as both personal and brand-based, with Ford vs Toyota as part of the storyline.
Toyota
"Ford and Toyota, Triple Eight and Walcons shores. [1101.0s] It allows really well. [1102.2s] And then you see so many people online say, oh, but the media is fueling all of this."
Toyota is the other brand in the rivalry they’re talking about. When Toyota and Ford are both involved, it often turns a driver feud into a bigger brand storyline.
Toyota is the other manufacturer named in the rivalry setup, paired directly against Ford. In Supercars, manufacturer competition can shape team priorities, driver matchups, and how fans interpret on-track incidents.
Walcons shores
"Ford and Toyota, Triple Eight and Walcons shores. [1101.0s] It allows really well. [1102.2s] And then you see so many people online say, oh, but the media is fueling all of this."
This sounds like a team name, but the transcript may have misheard it. They’re basically saying the rivalry involves specific teams, not just drivers.
“Walcons shores” appears to be a transcription error for a Supercars team name (likely “Walkinshaw”/“Walkinshaw Andretti United” or a related entry). The hosts are listing teams involved in the rivalry, so the exact team name matters for listeners trying to follow the story.
media is fueling all of this
"And then you see so many people online say, oh, but the media is fueling all of this. [1105.8s] This is terrible. [1106.7s] These are the same people who want a rivalry."
They’re talking about whether news coverage makes rivalries worse. The hosts say the people complaining are often the same ones who want rivalries in the first place.
The hosts discuss the idea that media coverage can amplify rivalries, and they push back on that criticism. This is a narrative/coverage topic rather than a technical automotive subject, but it’s central to how they frame the feud.
Rhymewood incident
"...before and after the Rhymewood incident at Adelaide last year. He's always been very good with the media..."
They mention a specific incident that people in the Supercars world recognize by a nickname. It’s basically shorthand for a notable crash/controversy that affected the driver’s reputation and how the media talked about him.
“Rhymewood incident” appears to be a named on-track controversy involving Brock Feeney. In racing coverage, incidents are often labeled by location or shorthand so fans can quickly connect the story to the specific moment and consequences.
villain because you want everything
"And that becomes an issue for someone like Jamie because you win so many races and then you become the villain because you want everything. And then if it was stuff, you're a victim of your own success."
When someone wins a lot in racing, some fans start to dislike them—not because they’re doing something wrong, but because they’re dominating. The “villain” label is basically about how people talk about them, not just their driving.
In motorsport, a driver can become a “villain” in the fan narrative when they dominate and appear to demand more—wins, control, or favorable treatment. It’s a social dynamic: success changes how rivals and fans interpret a driver’s actions.
victim of your own success
"And then if it was stuff, you're a victim of your own success. I can kind of see that potentially Brock could end up in a similar situation."
It means the driver’s success makes life harder for them. The more they win, the more people judge them and look for reasons to criticize them.
“Victim of your own success” is a common motorsport storyline where a driver’s achievements raise expectations and scrutiny. The better they do, the more every controversy or perceived slight gets amplified.
A-grade drivers
"So my question, Jack, who are the A-grade drivers of supercars? ... And we talked about this. ... what is an A-grader?"
“A-grade drivers” is just a way of saying the best, most proven drivers in the series. The hosts argue about what counts as “best,” usually based on wins and top results.
The hosts are using “A-grade drivers” as a way to rank driver quality in supercars, tied to results and perceived competitiveness. It’s essentially a subjective label, but they’re debating it using concrete performance context (like race-winning drivers).
Chevy
"... the Chevy side doesn't have a lot of Gen 3 race winning drivers, fact."
“Chevy” here means Chevrolet, the car brand that competes in Supercars. They’re debating whether Chevrolet has produced as many of the very best, race-winning drivers as other brands.
“Chevy” is shorthand for Chevrolet, one of the manufacturer brands competing in Supercars. The hosts are discussing how Chevrolet’s driver roster compares to other brands in terms of top-tier, race-winning talent.
Triple 8 car
"[1331.9s] He's never been out of a Triple 8 car. [1333.6s] Correct."
Triple Eight is a well-known Supercars racing team in Australia. If someone’s “never been out of a Triple 8 car,” it means they’ve mostly raced for that same team.
“Triple Eight” refers to Triple Eight Race Engineering, a major Australian Supercars team. Saying someone has “never been out of a Triple 8 car” means they’ve spent their career driving for that team, which often correlates with strong engineering support and competitive equipment.
best car for all of your career
"[1334.0s] But the aim of the game is to be in the best car for all of your career or as much of it as you can. [1338.5s] He's A, absolutely."
The hosts are discussing a career strategy in Supercars: staying in the best-performing car/team for as much of your career as possible. In racing, “best car” usually reflects the whole package—car setup, engineering, reliability, and driver support—not just raw power.
A-minus / A-elect / A's / bees and seas
"I've got two that I would say are A-minus... I had Kai Allen as an A-elect... There's guys who are bees and seas. Guys who are seas who could become bees..."
They’re ranking drivers into different “levels” based on how good they are and how likely they are to move up. It’s basically a way to talk about who’s expected to become a top star.
The hosts use a tiering system (A-minus, A-elect, A’s, bees, seas) to categorize drivers by perceived potential and likelihood of reaching top seats. It’s a shorthand for how teams and fans rate drivers’ career trajectories.
driver market
"...on who are the guys who are going to control the driver market for the next 5, 6, 7, 8 years? That if one moves, or if Matt Paine's going to leave Groves, or if Cam Waters ever left Tickford..."
They mean which drivers are likely to get the best seats in the future. If a driver leaves a team or a team changes its lineup, other drivers move up to fill those spots.
They’re talking about the “driver market” in Supercars—how teams and sponsors recruit and trade top drivers. The idea is that a small group of drivers can shape who gets seats over the next several years, depending on contract moves and team changes.
Groves
"...That if one moves, or if Matt Paine's going to leave Groves, or if Cam Waters ever left Tickford..."
Groves is a Supercars team/operation. If key people move on, it can create openings for drivers and shake up who ends up where.
Groves is referenced as a team/operation in the Supercars ecosystem. The discussion implies that if someone like Matt Paine were to leave Groves, it could open up a seat and change the driver market.
Red Bull
"...or if Red Bull dispensed one of their drivers for whatever reason, who are they looking for to change that up..."
Red Bull is a major motorsport brand that supports drivers. If they stop backing a driver or move them elsewhere, it can change which drivers get seats.
Red Bull is mentioned as a driver-supplying brand that can influence Supercars lineups. The hosts are suggesting that if Red Bull “dispensed” a driver, it could trigger contract changes and create opportunities for other drivers.
Paul Morris Motorsports
"I'm still in a group text message with a bunch of people that I work with at Paul Morris Motorsports back in 2010."
They mention Paul Morris Motorsports as where the speaker works. In racing, the team you’re with can affect how the car is set up and who you work with.
Paul Morris Motorsports is referenced as the speaker’s workplace/team context. In Australian motorsport, team affiliations matter because they influence driver lineups, car preparation, and race strategy.
Bathurst top 10 shootout predictions
"But every year we come up with our Bathurst top 10 shootout predictions. Of who's going to get in? The top 10 that are going to get in from Qualifying..."
They’re discussing a Bathurst event format where the quickest cars from qualifying get invited into a special top-10 session. The group is making predictions about which drivers/cars will make that cut.
The hosts are talking about a “Bathurst top 10 shootout,” which is a qualifying-based cut where only the fastest cars make it into a final top-10 session. They’re using predictions and a group chat to guess who will qualify into that shootout.
Qualifying
"The top 10 that are going to get in from Qualifying, and to what we would call Jarrod Ruffys... When do you have to choose? Before Qualifying."
Qualifying is when drivers try to set their fastest lap to earn a better starting spot. At Bathurst, qualifying also decides which cars get into the top-10 shootout.
Qualifying is the session where each car tries to set the fastest lap time to determine starting positions and—at Bathurst—who advances into the top-10 shootout. It’s a key performance indicator because it reflects outright pace over a short run.
Jarrod Ruffys
"and to what we would call Jarrod Ruffys. Jarrod Ruffys, there's a hook, man, I like that... When do you have to choose? Before Qualifying."
“Jarrod Ruffys” sounds like a fun prediction category the group uses alongside the main top-10 shootout picks. It’s meant to guess who could surprise and make the cut.
“Jarrod Ruffys” appears to be a nickname or internal game term for a prediction list separate from the official top-10 shootout cut. The hosts treat it as a way to measure who might “rise to the occasion” and get into the shootout.
Bathurst shootout
"They're all in my Bathurst shootout. All of us, right? And then my Ruffys are David Reynolds... And the Bathurst shootout is typically the fastest 10 guys in that session."
The “Bathurst shootout” refers to the final top-10 session where the fastest qualifiers compete again. The hosts describe it as typically featuring the fastest 10 cars from that session, making it a strong snapshot of pace.
tiebreaker
"There was kind of this, hang on a minute, we've got an equal point situation going into the last few laps... whoever got the best result in the last race was going to break the tiebreaker"
A tiebreaker is what you use when two people end up with the same points. It’s the extra rule that decides who gets the win or the trophy when the normal points don’t separate them.
A tiebreaker is the rule used to decide standings or awards when two competitors have equal points. The hosts are describing how the Jason Richards trophy situation required a procedure for an equal-point scenario late in the race.
stewards
"So it actually got to the point where the stewards were tapped to go, hey, what do you think about all this?"
Stewards are the officials who watch the race and make decisions when something is unclear. If there’s a rules dispute or an incident, they decide what the outcome should be.
In motorsport, stewards are officials who review incidents and apply the sporting rules. They can make calls on penalties, race results, and how tie-breakers or regulations should be handled.
Sprint Cup
"that yes, there's rules in place for Enduro Cup and Sprint Cup."
Sprint Cup is the shorter-race version of the competition. Since it’s a different race length, it usually has its own rules for how points and results are handled.
Sprint Cup is the shorter-race counterpart to endurance formats, with its own rules for points and outcomes. The hosts are pointing out that tie-breaking procedures exist for these established categories.
Enduro Cup
"that yes, there's rules in place for Enduro Cup and Sprint Cup."
Enduro Cup is a racing category that’s built around longer races. Because it’s longer, the rules are often more detailed—especially for points and how results are decided.
Enduro Cup refers to an endurance-style competition format within the series, where rules and points are structured around longer race events. The discussion contrasts it with Sprint Cup to highlight that some formats already have tie-handling rules.
JR trophy
"Obviously, the Peter Brock trophy, the Larry Perkins trophy, the JR trophy. And then there's the Jim Richards medal, Barry Sheen medal. ... Brody Kostecki had two wins and Brock had none, but Brock, by being virtually finishing higher than Brody, would have got the trophy."
The JR trophy is an award given at the end of the event. The discussion is about how the rules decide who earns it, and how that can change depending on the tie-break method.
The “JR trophy” is one of the named awards discussed, tied to how championship merit is interpreted. The hosts use an example involving Brody Kostecki and Peter Brock to show how different tie-break logic could change who “should” receive the trophy.
Peter Brock trophy
"Obviously, the Peter Brock trophy, the Larry Perkins trophy, the JR trophy. ... Brody Kostecki had two wins and Brock had none, but Brock, by being virtually finishing higher than Brody, would have got the trophy."
The Peter Brock trophy is one of the special awards handed out after the season. In this episode, they use Brock’s race results to show how the trophy could go to someone else depending on how the rules are applied.
The “Peter Brock trophy” is mentioned as one of multiple awards presented at the gala. The hosts later reference Peter Brock’s results in a specific example to illustrate how trophy eligibility can hinge on the tie-break rules.
Larry Perkins trophy
"Obviously, the Peter Brock trophy, the Larry Perkins trophy, the JR trophy. And then there's the Jim Richards medal, Barry Sheen medal."
The Larry Perkins trophy is another named award given at the end of the event. The hosts are talking about making sure the rules are clear so nobody is confused about how trophies are awarded.
The “Larry Perkins trophy” is listed among the awards presented at the end-of-gala. It’s part of the broader discussion about ensuring there’s a clear rule set so teams understand which results map to each trophy.
Barry Sheen medal
"And then there's the Jim Richards medal, Barry Sheen medal. So there's not like we've got one for every race."
The Barry Sheen medal is another named award given out at the end. The hosts are pointing out that there are several different awards, so the criteria need to be clear.
The “Barry Sheen medal” is listed alongside other named awards. It appears in the context of explaining that the event has multiple trophies/medals, not one for every race, which can create confusion if rules aren’t clearly communicated.
Jim Richards medal
"And then there's the Jim Richards medal, Barry Sheen medal. So there's not like we've got one for every race."
The Jim Richards medal is one of the awards handed out at the end. The episode is about making sure everyone understands the award rules so there’s no confusion.
The “Jim Richards medal” is mentioned as one of several medals presented, reinforcing that there are multiple award categories beyond just the main championship. The hosts emphasize avoiding confusion about which award is tied to which criteria.
deadlock breaker (tie-breaking rules)
"It was who won the most races, most seconds, most thirds, before you could break the deadlock. So it's how the polar wards worked over the years too."
A deadlock is when the points don’t separate two people. The tie-breaker rules decide who wins by using a priority list like more wins first, then more second places, and so on.
A “deadlock” here means two competitors are level under the championship scoring system. The hosts explain that the rules can “break the deadlock” using a hierarchy of results (wins, then seconds, then thirds) rather than a single-race finishing position.
merit-based trophy awarding
"So that's a whole new series of questions over who actually should win the trophy in merit. ... Well, let's just make sure there's a rule. We don't have to have that question ever again."
The hosts question “who actually should win the trophy in merit,” highlighting a common motorsport governance issue: whether awards reflect race-by-race finishing merit, cumulative performance, or a specific tie-break hierarchy. They conclude by emphasizing the need for clear rules to prevent the same confusion from happening again.
tyres
"Those who remember Jason, his dad always did his tyres for him, [1688.9s] no matter what team he was a popular figure in the paddock. [1691.6s] I think he missed maybe one or two rounds in JRs in tyre supercar career across,"
Tyres are a critical consumable in Supercars because grip and wear directly affect lap times and race strategy. The transcript highlights a “tyres” routine—Jason’s dad doing them—showing how hands-on tyre preparation and timing can influence performance and reliability over a weekend.
paddock
"no matter what team he was a popular figure in the paddock. [1691.6s] I think he missed maybe one or two rounds in JRs in tyre supercar career across,"
The paddock is the busy area near the track where racing teams hang out and do their work. It’s not the race itself—it’s where cars get prepared and team people interact.
In motorsport, the paddock is the off-track area where teams park, work on cars, and handle logistics between sessions. It’s where relationships, team dynamics, and day-to-day operations happen—so “a popular figure in the paddock” signals someone well-known within the racing community.
FPR
"I remember giving Jason a bit of stick one time because he was essentially going to do a deal. [1711.1s] I think it was with FPR or Tickford, whatever they were called that week."
FPR is the name of a racing team/operation. When they mention it in a “deal” context, they mean Jason was considering driving with or for that team.
FPR is a Supercars team/operation referenced here as a potential deal partner for Jason Richards. In Supercars discussions, team names like this matter because they’re tied to car programs, engineering support, and sponsorship relationships.
Mark Porter trophy in Hamilton
"And I guess then the other thing I did want to quickly mention is, [1725.9s] because it was over two weekends, we used to have the Mark Porter trophy in Hamilton."
They’re talking about a specific award called the Mark Porter trophy. It was being presented during the Hamilton event(s), and they mention it to give context to what happened over those weekends.
The Mark Porter trophy is a named award associated with events held in Hamilton, referenced as happening over two weekends. Named trophies like this are common in series support races and event weekends, and they help frame the significance of the weekend beyond just the main championship.
Denny Holm
"And maybe we could bring back the Mark Porter trophy for another one, or pay tribute to Denny Holm or other guys that have been notorious with New Zealand motorsport."
Denny Holm is mentioned as someone worth paying tribute to within New Zealand motorsport. The hosts are discussing how memorial trophies can recognize influential figures in the local racing community.
trophy at a particular round
"I do like the situation that we have where to race for a trophy at a particular round, it might help make some of those smaller rounds mean a little bit more."
They’re saying you can make certain races more special by having a trophy that’s only on the line at that event. That helps even smaller races feel like they matter.
The hosts are talking about using trophies tied to specific race rounds to add meaning and stakes to the calendar. This is a common way to keep smaller events feeling important to teams and fans.
Australian touring car era
"In its Australian touring car, era, early V8 supercars, I think it's great."
They’re referring to a time when touring-car racing was a major part of Australian motorsport. The idea is that trophies should match the history and identity of that era.
“Australian touring car era” is shorthand for the period when touring-car racing dominated Australia’s motorsport scene, including the rise of V8-powered categories. The hosts use it to justify why certain trophies and tributes belong to that historical context.
Bathurst in 06
"And obviously he passed away, Bathurst in 06. Hamilton came on the calendar in 08."
“Bathurst in 06” refers to the year 2006 at Mount Panorama (Bathurst), a cornerstone event in Australian motorsport. The hosts connect Mark Porter’s timeline to Bathurst, emphasizing the significance of major Australian race weekends.
Hamilton came on the calendar in 08
"Hamilton came on the calendar in 08. So it was a logical, nice tie up."
They’re saying Hamilton started hosting races in 2008. The trophy makes sense there because it matches the timing and location of the event.
This refers to the race calendar adding Hamilton in 2008, tying the trophy’s location to when the event became part of the schedule. It’s an example of how organizers align tributes with where and when races are held.
Garth Hannah
"I remember seeing Mark's wife, 80, present Garth Hannah with that the first time. And it was like the biggest, huge trophy you've ever seen."
Garth Hannah is referenced in the context of Mark Porter’s trophy presentation, indicating he was the recipient at that moment. This is a human-interest detail that helps listeners understand how these trophies are actually awarded.
Super 2 series
"And when I think about it, he spent more time in the Super 2 series than sort of, he was a co-driver in the main game for a couple of years there"
Super 2 is like a stepping-stone racing series. Drivers use it to gain experience and then try to move up to the main Supercars championship.
The Super 2 series is a feeder/support category in Australian touring car/supercar racing that helps drivers build experience before moving up to the main Supercars championship. When the host says someone spent more time in Super 2 than co-driving in the main game, they’re talking about a typical career path within the Supercars ladder.
Rua Puna
"New Zealand, is Rua Puna good enough for Super Cars? Jack, yes or no?"
Rua Puna is the race track/location they’re talking about for Supercars in New Zealand. They’re arguing whether it works well for racing and for fans watching.
Rua Puna is the New Zealand venue being discussed as a potential Supercars event location. The hosts debate whether it’s “good enough,” citing practical factors like pit lane size, pit exit placement, traffic, and the overall viewing experience at home.
pit lane wasn't big enough
"So you're okay with the fact that the pit lane wasn't big enough for pit stops."
If the pit lane is too small, teams can’t get cars in and out as smoothly. That can slow down tyre changes and other pit work during the race.
When a pit lane isn’t large enough, it can constrain how many cars can enter/exit the pits at once, potentially causing delays and making pit stops less efficient. In a series where pit strategy matters, this can influence race outcomes and team planning.
Highlands
"You're okay with the fact that there's not more rounds in Australia. You're okay with it, that it's not at Highlands, that the traffic was no good"
Highlands is another track/location mentioned as a place they’re not using. The point is that different venues have different problems and trade-offs.
Highlands is referenced as an alternative venue that isn’t being used (“it’s not at Highlands”). In motorsport discussions, venue choice affects race logistics (traffic, pit access, exits) and can change how the event feels for drivers and viewers.
pit exit placement
"that the pit exit placement is ordinary, that the internet was no good."
Pit exit placement is where cars come back onto the track after leaving the pits. If it’s awkward, it can make it harder to rejoin safely and smoothly.
Pit exit placement is where the pit lane rejoins the track, which can affect safety and race flow—especially when traffic is heavy or when cars are exiting the pits at speed. The host lists it as one of the complaints about the venue.
tyre walls
"There was earthfield tyre walls that..."
Tyre walls are safety barriers made of tyres. They help slow and absorb energy if a car hits the wall, making crashes less severe.
Tyre walls are safety barriers made from stacked tyres designed to absorb impact energy and reduce crash severity. The transcript suggests the track has tyre-wall arrangements that some people criticize or comment on.
Super Series
"And I raced down there in the Super Series. I'll say you drove there, didn't you?"
The “Super Series” is mentioned in the context of racing at Rua Puna, suggesting a racing event/category the speaker participated in. It’s used to justify their opinion about whether the venue works, based on personal experience.
pit stops
"It didn't really hurt anyone the pit stops. No, and I think even the fans, it was a sell out from what they were saying on the TV,"
A pit stop is when the race car pulls into the pit lane during the race to get help from the team. Usually that means things like tire changes, and it’s done strategically so the car can keep going fast.
“Pit stops” are scheduled stops during a race where teams service the car—typically changing tires and sometimes refueling or making adjustments. The key idea is that pit stops are part of race strategy, so they can be planned even when conditions or logistics are imperfect.
Malala
"we have tracks that we could be racing in Australia. Winton, Malala, one raceway. Now, they've all copped a beating over time"
Malala is a race track mentioned as part of the speaker’s list of places Australia could race. Tracks affect how the car drives, so teams would adjust their setup for that circuit.
Malala is another racing venue mentioned alongside Winton and “one raceway,” in the context of Australia needing more events. Like any circuit, its specific characteristics would influence how teams prepare cars for braking, cornering, and tire management.
Winton
"There's not around in Winton because there's not government money to help the regional side of the situation. So I think that that's the next focus. We've got to get around back at Winton."
They’re talking about the race track at Winton and why it makes sense to hold an event there. The point is that some tracks get more support than others, which affects where races can happen.
The hosts discuss Winton as a “logical” venue for the next event. In Australian motorsport, Winton is known as a purpose-built circuit where racing can be staged even when other regions lack funding.
Phillip Island
"Phillip Island is a stretch too far, but Winton is the logical. I love that Rua Puna in the fact that it's an old school race track that they just found a way to make it happen."
Phillip Island is mentioned as a venue that’s “a stretch too far,” implying travel or logistical cost makes it less feasible for the planned event. It’s a well-known Australian circuit, so the comment is about practicality rather than track quality.
infield focus
"because it's got a very infield focus that you can't go out and put the cameras in the middle of the track kind of like you can."
They’re describing how the track is laid out so that the racing and viewing are centered around the infield. Because of that layout, it’s harder to place cameras right in the middle of the track.
The hosts say the track has a “very infield focus,” meaning the action and sightlines are oriented toward the central infield area. That affects broadcast setup because camera placement in the middle of the track may be restricted compared with other circuits.
Queensland Raceway
"They're like Queensland Raceway. Yeah, yeah, correct, correct."
Queensland Raceway is a race track in Australia. The hosts mention it to compare how much of the action you can see while standing near the track.
Queensland Raceway is an Australian motorsport circuit. The hosts use it as a reference point for how much you can see from the trackside, which affects the viewing experience.
Townsville
"[2098.3s] but you do get that fatigue at events. [2100.4s] And we've seen it in Townsville, [2102.4s] where the first three, four, five years are booming and great. [2105.8s] And after a while, the casual viewer falls away."
Townsville is used as an example of a race event that started strong and then got harder to keep going. It’s basically about how fan interest can rise and fall.
Townsville is mentioned as an example of how event popularity can change over time. In motorsport, early years can draw big crowds, but later attendance can drop if casual viewers lose interest.
championship standings
"but the thing is with all this, he's still fourth in the championship. Yeah, it's crazy looking at those stats."
The championship is the season-long points table. You can struggle in qualifying sometimes but still be high overall if you score points consistently.
Championship standings track a driver’s cumulative points over the season, not just single-race results. It’s possible to have poor qualifying or form in one area while still remaining high in the overall championship.
car setup
"I don't think it's because he's forgotten how to qualify, mate. They're missing something with the setup of the car."
“Car setup” refers to how the team configures the car for performance—things like suspension settings, aero balance, tire pressures, and brake/traction behavior. If a driver is strong historically but suddenly qualifies worse, it often points to a setup mismatch for that track or conditions.
Request an Explanation
Heard something you'd like explained? We'll add it to this episode.
Sign in to request explanations for terms you heard.
Want to learn more?
Browse our glossary for plain-English explanations of automotive terms, jargon, and concepts.
Help improve this episode
See something that's not quite right? Our annotations are AI-generated and can sometimes miss the mark. Click the flag icon on any annotation to suggest a correction.