SRO Motorsports Australia has appointed Matleena Pukkila as the new GT World Challenge (GTWC) Australia powered by AWS Series Manager from 2026 onwards, marking an important leadership transition for the championship.
Pukkila brings extensive category management experience to the role. She previously worked across several high-profile national series, including Porsche Sprint Challenge Australia, Porsche Carrera Cup Australia and, most recently, Monochrome GT4 Australia. As a result, she steps into the position with a deep understanding of the Australian GT landscape.
Importantly, Pukkila will retain her current role as Monochrome GT4 Australia Category Manager, adding the GT World Challenge Australia responsibilities to her expanding portfolio within SRO Motorsports Australia.
SRO-appointed Pukkila a familiar face in the GTWC Australia Paddock
Teams and drivers will already know Pukkila well. In 2024, she served as Event Manager and Sporting Coordinator for SRO Motorsports Australia. In addition, she holds the role of Event Administrator for the Bathurst 12 Hour, further strengthening her credentials within elite GT racing circles.
Consequently, her appointment ensures continuity and stability as the championship prepares for the 2026 campaign. Although she will officially assume the Series Manager role on 18 December, teams and competitors may already contact her regarding preparations for next season.
Leadership transition confirmed
Pukkila replaces Charise Bristow, who concludes her tenure after guiding the series since 2023. Bristow departs to pursue new professional opportunities, and SRO Motorsports Australia has expressed its sincere appreciation for her leadership and contribution.
SRO Motorsports Australia CEO Ben McMellan welcomed the appointment, stating:
“We are more than pleased to have Matleena step into the Category Manager for GT World Challenge Australia and we are excited to see her excel in the 2026 season and beyond. With her GT4 Australia and Bathurst 12 Hour role experience, Matleena’s remarkable ability to lead and her existing relationships with the current crop of GT World Challenge Australia teams and drivers, so it was an obvious choice to have her replace Charise.
“Through working closely with Charise after taking on the role of category manager for GT4 this year, Matleena has proved that she highly capable of holding this position and I have no doubt that she will do a stellar job and it will be a seamless transition.
“I would also like to use this opportunity to thank Charise on behalf of SRO Motorsports Australia for her incredible work and commitment to GT World Challenge Australia powered by AWS, and wish her all the very best for the future.”
Building on strong foundations
Pukkila expressed enthusiasm about stepping into the leadership role:
“I am excited at the opportunity to take on the Series Manager role for GT World Challenge Australia and look forward to the challenge that comes with it,” Pukkila said.
“Working alongside with Charise this year in my role has been incredible and I am hopeful of continuing the outstanding work she has done over the past two seasons. I am confident that I can build on the strong foundation she has created.
“The category is certainly on an upward trajectory with a lot of potential, and I am thrilled to now be part of it – I am looking forward to playing a role in its continued development and being a trusted contact for the teams and drivers.”
Looking ahead, GTWC Australia powered by AWS will begin its 2026 season at the Shannons SpeedSeries’ GT Festival Phillip Island, held at the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit on 27–29 March. With Pukkila preparing to take charge, the championship enters a new phase backed by experienced leadership and a clear commitment to continued growth.
