"VAN" (Sports Desk - 13.04.2026) :: The Top Sportsman championship fight is set to deliver a truly intense battle at the ANDRA Grand Finals, with two racers arriving on the maximum 300‑point cap and three more still in mathematical contention ahead of the April 18 decider at Dragway at The Bend.
Former Super Street champion Tommy Turic leads the charge into the finale, aiming to add a Top Sportsman Gold ANDRA Christmas Tree to his growing list of achievements.
“I am really looking forward to the ANDRA Grand Finals, and it is great to be going in on the points cap after a solid season,” Turic said.
“The focus now is just on staying sharp, cutting good reaction times, and letting the car do its job.
“Darryl Stephen and Dean Tassone are both very tough competitors, so it is going to be a great battle.
“Winning the championship would mean a lot and would be a huge reward for all the hard work that has been put in this season.”
Turic also remains a mathematical chance for the prestigious John Storm Memorial Trophy.
“The John Storm Memorial Trophy hasn’t really been our main focus heading into the final round, but it is definitely something we wouldn’t turn down,” he added.
“Our priority is just concentrating on the race, doing our job, and trying to put together the best runs we can. If things fall our way and we end up with it, that would obviously be pretty special.”
Sharing the points cap is Darryl Stephen, who is relishing the challenge ahead.
“Our team is very excited to be heading to The Bend for the ANDRA Grand Final,” Stephen said.
“We are locked in a battle for the Top Sportsman Championship, and it will be a tough field to get through to be able to lift the trophy.
“Tommy Turic has been terrific all season and is a very tough racer. We will do our best to bring the trophy back to NSW, but if we don’t, I will be the first to congratulate the winner.”
Stephen said the team is determined to enjoy the moment regardless of the outcome.
“My team is looking forward to the event, and we will enjoy ourselves win or lose,” he said.
“I would like to thank ANDRA for continuing to put this series on, as well Dragway at The Bend for hosting the Grand Final.
“I would also like to thank those who have supported us through the 2025/26 ANDRA season — Maxima Racing Oils, CC Royal Vending Equipment, The Corner Post @ Westfield Liverpool, MacArthur Garages, PMHVR Motorsport Connections, and Schott Racecraft.
“I wish all competitors a safe journey to and from the event, and I wish them all the best of luck – may the best racer win.”
Sitting just behind the capped pair is Dean Tassone on 280 points, followed by Daniel Jones (250) and Leon Davies (200), all capable of shaking up the championship picture given there are 100 points on offer for a win.
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