Supercars star Matt Payne has broken his silence on being denied the change to race in NASCAR this summer.

Richard Childress Racing had hoped to bring the 23-year-old Grove Racing star over for the race at Sonoma at the end of June, but boss Stephen Grove confirmed last week that the plan had been blocked.

Grove released a lengthy statement at the time, revealing that part of the reason for his refusal was the fact that RCR race in General Motors Chevrolets, while Payne drives for a Ford team in Supercars.

The statement also cited the wrist surgery Payne underwent after a mountain biking accident last month, and questioned why GM would extend a NASCAR offer to a Ford driver when there are a number of talented Supercars drivers contracted to GM teams.

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Payne: It was a cool opportunity

In a press conference this week at the Darwin Triple Crown, Payne called the decision 'unfortunate', but insisted that he has moved on already.

"It was obviously a cool opportunity," he said. "To be presented with something like that, it's obviously very special. But unfortunately, the decision was made and we all moved on.

"So, we'll continue to do what we're doing now, and that's continuing trying to win races."

Payne issues statement on future amid rumors

The Kiwi has been the subject of rumors linking him with a switch from Ford to GM over the last few months even outside of his potential NASCAR run, and he released a statement this week insisting that – for now – he remains committed to his employers.

"Over the past few months there has been a lot of speculation about my future, so I wanted to provide a brief update," Payne said.

"Right now, my focus is on driving for Grove Racing and continuing to build on what we have achieved together. I have a contract with Grove Racing and I expect to be driving with the team to the end of 2027.

"For now, my priority is winning races, competing for the championship, and delivering the best possible results for Grove Racing, our sponsors and everyone who supports us. I am excited about what lies ahead and remain fully focused on the remainder of the 2026 season."

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