The Ultimate Driver Championship is more than a quest to find the world’s number one driver. It’s a contest, a game of strategy, and a chance to win big with over $250,000 up for grabs. This exhilarating new slot racing series will see ten of the world's best harness drivers battle it out in a 20-race series across two feature nights at Albion Park in February 2025.
The unique series will have slot holders pick both the drivers and horses to compete in the slots across the 20 races. Of the ten slots, nine will be available for purchase at $20,000 each, with the Championship sponsor Ladbrokes filling the remaining slot. Syndicates, businesses, or individuals can apply for slots, with preference given to syndicates to maximize engagement and slot holders aiming to provide promotional value to the event and the racing industry in Queensland. Applications for slots close on July 31, 2024.
Once a slot is secured, holders can negotiate with leading drivers in Australia or overseas. Drivers must be A-grade or equivalent, with the arrangement for the drivers services between the slot holder and the driver. After securing a driver, slot holders will choose which horse their driver partners with via a 'snake order draft', ensuring fairness and competitiveness.
Slot holders will earn points throughout the 20 races based on their driver's performance, with the top slot holder and their driver winning the first prize of $100,000. Slot holders will also receive $1,000 for each race winner.
The series promises to attract global interest, with endorsements from top drivers like Tim Tetrick and Jody Jamieson, who praise its innovative approach and potential to boost harness racing's popularity. The Ultimate Driver Championship is set to be a spectacular showcase of talent and strategy, bringing the best drivers in the world to compete at Albion Park.