12 Jun 2026 03:05am
I woke on Friday morning to the terrible news that public relations and motorsport communications specialist Matt Payne had died suddenly at the age of 46.
For more than two decades, Matt was a friend of Sponsorship News. Whether it was providing insight as a motorsport contact, stepping in to write articles when regular contributors were away, or more recently lending his personality and professionalism to Sponsorship News conferences, Matt was always willing to help.
Many people across Australian motorsport knew Matt as a communications professional, journalist and commentator, but those who worked with him knew him as much for his generosity as his expertise. He had an infectious enthusiasm for the sport and a genuine interest in the people within it.
For more than 20 years he was the voice of Australian karting, travelling the country to provide commentary and media services at events large and small. In a statement announcing his passing, Karting Australia described him as a man who witnessed the development of countless young drivers who would go on to successful careers in motorsport and who took genuine pride in helping tell their stories.
Matt joked that his voice could be heard in the Netflix Formula 1 series Drive to Survive through footage of a young Oscar Piastri competing in karting. "I might need to set up an IMDb profile," he laughed. It was classic Matt, never taking himself too seriously despite the important role he played in documenting Australian motorsport.
His career included running his own agency, Acclaim Media, and a six-year stint with BAM Media. Yet no matter how impressive the event or the profile of the driver, Matt remained approachable, down-to-earth and happy to share his knowledge.
Away from motorsport, Matt was a passionate South Sydney Rabbitohs supporter. He was always up for a chat, a laugh, a debate or, when circumstances required, a vent about the latest result. Conversations with Matt were rarely dull and often memorable.
The outpouring of tributes from across Australian motorsport reflects the esteem in which he was held. Drivers, officials, media colleagues and industry professionals have all spoken of a man who cared deeply about the sport and the people within it.
For me, I have lost a trusted contributor, a valued industry contact and, most importantly, a friend.
Our thoughts are with his mother Helen, brother Daniel, extended family and the many friends and colleagues whose lives he touched.
Vale Matt Payne.