Erebus Motorsport heads into the 2026 Repco Bathurst 1000 in strong form, as driver Lochie says the team is seriously in contention and end a 32-year drought at Mount Panorama. Team principal Betty Klimenko has pointed to a specific preparation factor she believes gives Erebus a leg up this year, while co-driver Hughes backed that mood by setting the pace in the final co-driver practice session.

The build-up has had its complications for the broader Erebus camp. Kostecki's qualifying bid for a place in Bathurst history was stopped by a Supercars rookie, as Ford runners also struggled in the session.