New Zealand motorcycle legend Aaron Slight is leading a nationwide campaign for Cormac Buchanan to race in the 2027 Moto3 World Championship.
Southland motorcycle racer Cormac Buchanan, 20, who races in the Moto3 World Championship with MotoGP, has launched a fundraiser to help with the financial challenges of representing New Zealand internationally. Photo: MNZ/Supplied
The 20-year-old Kiwi has earned the opportunity to compete at the highest level internationally for a third season after proving his potential despite significant injury setbacks this year.
“Cormac has already done the hard part,” said Slight. “He’s earned his place through sheer talent, relentless hard work and incredible determination, including fighting back from a fractured back and broken ankle in 2026. Now the challenge is raising the funds needed to keep him on the grid.”
Through the launch of Cormac’s Coffee Club at www.cormacracing.com supporters and motorcycle enthusiasts are being encouraged to contribute the equivalent of a virtual coffee each week to help fund Buchanan’s campaign.
And every member automatically has the chance to win a major prize of an exclusive all-expenses paid trip for two to the 2027 Australian MotoGP, plus monthly giveaways.
“Cormac has already done the hard part. He’s earned his place through sheer talent, relentless hard work and incredible determination, including fighting back from a fractured back and broken ankle in 2026. Now the challenge is raising the funds needed to keep him on the grid.” – Aaron Slight
Slight is urging Kiwis to join him and become members on the day of the club’s launch; Thursday, 22 October 2026. You can join via www.cormacracing.com
New Zealand motorcycle racing legend Aaron Slight is getting behind Cormac Buchanan’s push into MotoGP. Photo: MNZ/Supplied
“I know how tough it was for me to compete at that level and the challenges are so much harder now, so we need to unite behind Cormac,” Slight said. “Yes, we’re a small country compared to others he’s racing against, but that makes Cormac’s achievements so far even more impressive because of the hurdles he’s overcome to earn this.”
“He’s a kid with a dream,” Slight added. “We’ve been telling kids for years to dream big and go after it. This kid has, so why don’t we help with his push to get to MotoGP. Cormac has done the hard yards; it’s not a punt anymore. It’s about things lining up to secure the chance to show us he can do it.”
“We all have a finite time and Cormac’s is now, so that’s why I’m backing him so he can prove what he’s capable of achieving in the world championship.”
Buchanan thanked Slight for the incredible support and getting behind his 2027 campaign.
“To have someone like Aaron backing me is massive. He knows the sacrifices it takes to compete at this level, and I’m incredibly grateful he’s willing to mentor me,” he said. “I might be the only one riding the actual bike but with a team of supporters behind me I can achieve my goal of progressing to Moto2 and beyond.”
Kiwis are urged to visit www.cormacracing.com and join the club to support this young Southland talent.
Southland motorcycle racer Cormac Buchanan in action in the Moto3 World Championship. Photo: MNZ/Supplied
Cormac Buchanan Fast Facts
Who: Cormac Buchanan – New Zealand’s only current grand prix motorcycle racer
DOB: 23/08/2006 (20)
What: Cormac’s Coffee Club
When: Launched Thursday, 22 October 2026
Why: Fundraising to fuel Cormac’s 2027 Moto3 World Championship campaign
How: Join via www.cormacracing.com
MAJOR PRIZE DETAILS
Members automatically enter to win:
• All-expenses-paid trip for two to the 2027 Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix, including economy flights, accommodation and exclusive three-day paddock passes.
• Monthly prizes, including Cormac’s gear and merchandise.
