Author: Chris Ashby-Brown

British F4 expands TV coverage ahead of new season

The Wera Tools F4 British Championship certified by FIA will once again offer unprecedented coverage this year, with fans across the globe being able to watch each and every round of the UK’s premier single-seater series, as British F4 expands its coverage for 2026.

As the season fast approaches, the championship – which this year boasts a capacity entry list – is set to bring edge-of-the-seat entertainment, for which it has become famed, into the living rooms and mobile devices of fans across the globe.

Eight of the series’ ten rounds will see British F4 feature on the British Touring Car Championship bill and those watching in the United Kingdom will be able to tune into ITV4 on free-to-air television and ITVX online to watch the Sunday action unfold. Those outside of the UK will be able to follow the highly competitive series through the British F4 YouTube channel for those races.

In an expanded package of coverage, Race 1 on the Saturday of each of these race weekends will now be streamed globally via the British F4 YouTube channel. Regular commentators, Richard John Neill and Phil Glew, will once again provide the accompanying audio commentary and expert analysis to the pulsating on-track action across the weekend.

Away from the BTCC meetings, British F4 will be the headline act at two current Formula 1 venues with British F4 the top billing at the International Trophy meeting at Silverstone’s GP track configuration in May, and the Summer Trophy at Zandvoort in July – with both events being streamed live in both UK and abroad via the championship YouTube channel.

Eve Lake-Grange, British F4 Championship Manager, said: “We’re delighted to announce that every round of Wera Tools British F4 will be available to watch around the world this coming season.

“As the first step on the road to Formula 1, we understand the importance of putting our drivers on the biggest platform possible and confirmation of our broadcast schedule for 2026 does just that.

“We’ve seen our fan base grow not only in the UK but across the globe over the past few seasons and we expect that to continue this year, especially given the calibre of the international grid that has been assembled for 2026. It promises to be a fantastic season of close racing.”

Official entry list confirmed for 2026 BTCC season

The Kwik Fit British Touring Car Championship has confirmed a 21-car entry list made up of champions, challengers and contenders for the 2026 season.

Taking centre stage at Brands Hatch for its annual Season Launch, the UK’s premier motorsport series announced its grid ahead of its traditional tour across the length and breadth of the country – staging 30 races across ten race meetings.

Headlining the entry list is reigning champion Tom Ingram, who remains with Team Vertu and the Hyundai i30 Fastback N after producing a dominant title-winning campaign last year.

Looking to go back-to-back this term, Ingram enters the year as the driver to beat and he is joined at the current Manufacturers’/Constructors’ title holders by Tom Chilton, Nicolas Hamilton and the returning Ricky Collard.

NAPA Racing UK were the closest challengers to the Hyundai squad last season and they hope to topple them in 2026 as they roll out the saloon model of the Ford Focus, which replaces the hatchback version that has served them so well for several years.

Four-time champion Ash Sutton will spearhead the NAPA charge as he continues his pursuit of a record-breaking fifth crown. Alongside him is perennial contender Dan Cammish, race winner Sam Osborne and debutant Lewis Selby.

One of the biggest talking points over the off-season has been the birth of new team Plato Racing, which is figure-headed by former double champion Jason Plato. Their debut season consists of Dan Rowbottom and Adam Morgan driving Mercedes-AMG A35 Saloons.

Over at West Surrey Racing, the series’ most successful ever team will field a trio of BMW 330i M Sport machines for race winners Charles Rainford and Daryl De Leon.

Speedworks Motorsport remain the only team to field an unchanged line-up this year with their quartet of Toyota Corolla GR Sport cars being driven by Árón Taylor-Smith, Gordon Shedden, Josh Cook and Max Buxton.

Amongst the Independents’ teams, Power Maxed Racing have expanded to three cars, all of which are brand-new Audi S3 Saloons. Leading light Mikey Doble remains for a fourth consecutive season alongside Aiden Moffat and Dexter Patterson.

Reigning Independent Teams’ champions Restart Racing complete the grid they defend their crown with Chris Smiley and James Dorlin.

2026 Kwik Fit British Touring Car Championship – Entry List

2 – Daryl De Leon – WSR – BMW 330i M Sport
3 – Tom Chilton – Team Vertu – Hyundai i30 Fastback N
11 – Ricky Collard – Team Vertu – Hyundai i30 Fastback N
19 – Max Buxton – Speedworks Corolla Racing – Toyota Corolla GR Sport
15 – Lewis Selby – NAPA Racing UK – Ford Focus Titanium
16 – Aiden Moffat – LKQ Euro Car Parts with Power Maxed Racing – Audi S3 Saloon
17 – Dexter Patterson – Steel Seal with Power Maxed Racing – Audi S3 Saloon
22 – Chris Smiley – Restart Racing – Hyundai i30 Fastback N
27 – Dan Cammish – NAPA Racing UK – Ford Focus Titanium
28 – Nicolas Hamilton – Team Vertu – Hyundai i30 Fastback N
32 – Daniel Rowbottom – Cataclean Plato Racing – Mercedes-AMG A35 Saloon
33 – Adam Morgan – Cataclean Plato Racing – Mercedes-AMG A35 Saloon
50 – Árón Taylor-Smith – Laser Tools Racing with MB Motorsport – Toyota Corolla GR Sport
52 – Gordon Shedden – Laser Tools Racing with MB Motorsport- Toyota Corolla GR Sport
66 – Josh Cook – Speedworks Corolla Racing – Toyota Corolla GR Sport
77 – Sam Osborne – NAPA Racing UK – Ford Focus Titanium
80 – Tom Ingram – Team Vertu – Hyundai i30 Fastback N
88 – Mikey Doble – LKQ Euro Car Parts with Power Maxed Racing – Audi S3 Saloon
99 – Charles Rainford – WSR – BMW 330i M Sport
116 – Ash Sutton – NAPA Racing UK – Ford Focus Titanium
132 – James Dorlin – Restart Racing – Hyundai i30 Fastback N

Donington Park provides the setting for the opening three rounds of the 2026 Kwik Fit British Touring Car Championship season on April 18-19.

BARC delivers Easter extravaganza at Brands Hatch

The British Automobile Racing Club enjoyed a super-sized bank holiday weekend at Brands Hatch as the British Truck Racing Championship and TCR UK Championship took centre stage for the first time in 2026.

In front of a packed crowd at the Kent venue, the BARC delivered an Easter extravaganza of on-track entertainment as a number of categories hit the tarmac to kick-start their respective campaigns.

Topping the bill were five colossal contests from the British Truck Racing Championship. With each mighty machine weighing in at more than five tonnes and producing in excess of 1,200bhp, the UK’s biggest motor racing series certainly wowed the crowds.

Division 1 – the championship’s premier class – saw four different drivers open their accounts for the season around the Indy layout. Craig Reid was the first to strike as he snared pole position in qualifying before then converting it into a lights-to-flag victory in race one.

Reigning champion Ryan Smith then hit the front in race two as he claimed a commanding win before Stuart Oliver, the man he is tied with on ten career titles, recorded back-to-back triumphs in his Volvo VNL.

Arguably the biggest cheer of the weekend came in the fifth and final contest as one of the series’ most experienced drivers, Richard Collett, rolled back the years by soaking up a torrent of pressure to clinch a famous win.

Division 2 proved to be equally as competitive over the course of the weekend however one driver stood head and shoulders above the rest, reigning champion Jake Evans. The MAN racer scored four wins from five races, with John Powell being the only driver to beat him.

The TCR UK Championship provided a snapshot of how open the coming season could be as three different drivers ended up standing on the top step of the podium.

Jac Constable was the first to strike in the touring car series as he emerged victorious from a remarkable race that saw a number of the leading contenders all fail to finish due to damage and/or mechanical issues.

History was then made in the weekend’s second bout as Jenson O’Neill-Going became the youngest ever TCR UK race winner. The talented teenager had to work for it too as he soaked up a torrent of pressure from the experienced Max Hart, who hounded him all the way to the finish.

Last year’s runner-up Callum Newsham closed out proceedings as he bounced back from a non-score in race one to triumph. The Scotsman was flawless in a frantic finale, hitting the front early before then pulling clear as the laps ticked by.

The weekend marked the start of a new era for the Pickup Truck Racing Championship too as the popular series raced under the Truck Sport UK banner for the very first time.

While some things were different for the series, one thing that hadn’t changed was how thrilling the racing was, with three drivers walking away with a win apiece.

Aaron Thompson was the first to strike as he produced a sublime dive down the inside of Dale Gent at Paddock Hill Bend to win race one before Allen Cooper charged to glory in race two, fending off a charging Mark Willis late on.

Reigning champion Ryan Hadfield closed out the action as he managed to break clear of an almighty scrap for the remaining podium places to clinch a comfortable lights-to-flag victory.

More than 30 cars lined up for the start of the Civic Cup season and as expected, the tin top series delivered masses of entertainment.

Wesley Swain had the honour of taking victory in a hard-fought opening contest before Junior Saloon Car Championship graduate Wilf Butler showcased his talents by triumphing in just his second start in the category.

Jake Hewlett then closed out proceedings as he managed to break clear from the pack to win ahead of Dave Marshall, Matt Wilkins and one of the star performers from last year, Alistair Camp.

Elsewhere, Oli Willmott proved to be the cream of the crop when it came to the MINI CHALLENGE Clubsport with Airtec Motorsport as he picked up from where he left off last year as he guided his MINI Cooper S to three wins from three races around the Indy circuit.

There were further celebrations in the CMMC Super Saloon Series / Production Saloon Series too as Rod Birley chalked up his 300th and 301st career wins at Brands Hatch.

To view the full classification of all results from Brands Hatch, CLICK HERE.

BARC races into Spring Trucks vs TCR

Our second meeting of the year is one of the biggest. It’s time for Spring Trucks vs TCR at the Brands Hatch Indy circuit.

We have five bouts for the British Truck Racing Championship across the mammoth weekend, as well as exciting season openers from the TCR UK Championship, Civic Cup, MINI Challenge Clubsport and returning to the BARC roster – the crowd favourite Pickup Truck Racing Championship!

When is the next BARC weekend?

This weekend: Saturday 4 April and Sunday 5th April

Where are the events being held?

Brands Hatch
Address: Brands Hatch Circuit, London Road, West Kingsdown, Sevenoaks, Kent, TN15 6FS

What is racing this weekend?

We have a jam-packed schedule for you this weekend with something for every taste. Five Truck races and three TCR UK races headline the jam-packed billing. There will also be three races a piece for the Civic Cup, Pickup Racing Championship and MINI Challenge Clubsport grid, while the supporting Super Saloons will have two races to enjoy at the Kent venue on Sunday.

If I can’t get trackside or I am outside of the UK?

If you can’t make it to Brands Hatch… fear not… we have you covered! You can follow everything from home or on the move. The BARC YouTube channel will be broadcasting all the racing action live and for free – no matter where you are around the world on Saturday or Sunday.

Be sure to subscribe for the latest streams – www.youtube.com/@britishautomobileracingclub

How can I watch in person?

To go trackside at Brands Hatch, tickets start from £19 online for an adult ticket for Saturday and £22 on the gate. £39 for a weekend ticket online or £44 at the gate, with discounts for teens and senior citizens available and children aged 13 and under go free.

Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.brandshatch.co.uk/2026/april/british-truck-racing-championship

What time are things happening on track at Donington?
Practice heads the order on Saturday with on track action from 09:00 with the first race at 11:40.
On Sunday we go straight into racing at 10:05 and run all the way through to early evening stopping for a short lunch break in the middle.

Do you have any more information?

We have a few other handy links that might be useful to help you enjoy the second event of the year

Brands Hatch – Key Links

Live Timing and Commentary: www.tsl-timing.com/event/261421
Information*: www.barc.net/event/barc-race-meeting-brands-hatch-indy-april-4-5/
Entry List: www.barc.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/HQ02-BH-Trucks-Entry-List-v2.0-Pub-010426.pdf
Live Coverage Saturday: www.youtube.com/live/wTykFnnrzGA?si=fzMY0VtKl0X-rp-b
Live Coverage Sunday: www.youtube.com/live/ux9gR4VhCsE?si=G9W2ShEyIqp2_Tw3
* Timetable – Subject to adjustments prior and during the race meeting

We are ready to unleash the beasts from winter hibernation!

TCR UK set for blockbuster 2026 season opener at Brands Hatch

The TCR UK Touring Car Championship roars back into life this weekend as the 2026 season gets underway at the iconic Brands Hatch Indy circuit.

With a packed and ultra-competitive grid assembled, the opening rounds promise to set the tone for what is shaping up to be one of the most exciting campaigns in recent years.

Strength in depth across the grid

A diverse mix of race winners, experienced contenders and rising talent will line-up on the Kent grid, all aiming to make an early statement in the title fight.

Returning champions Lewis Kent and Carl Boardley will be looking to restamp their authority at Brands Hatch. Two-time champion Boardley will harness a new Honda FL5 TCR – one of five Japanese machines expected on the grid this year, while 2019 champion Kent is behind the wheel of the Chinese Lynk & Co 03.

Even more drivers are returning for more door-to-door battles. Ireland’s Barry-John McHenry, who pilots an Audi RS3 TCR Gen2 will be looking for early podiums, while fellow countryman Rod McGovern brings the ever-competitive CUPRA Leon VZ TCR to the grid as he targets the rostrum in 2026.

The Audi contingent is bolstered further by drivers such as Jac Constable and Russell Joyce, while the Hyundai camp features proven pace through Scotland’s Callum Newsham in the futuristic looking Elantra N TCR and tin-top favourite Rick Kerry in the proven i30.

Honda machinery is set to play a major role throughout the season, with multiple drivers – including Harry Bloor, Max Hart, Jenson O’Neill Going and Maximus Hall alongside Boardley in the latest Civic Type R FL5 TCR.

Elsewhere, the grid showcases the variety that has become synonymous with TCR competition. Brad Hutchison and Mark Smith unite to bring a pair of tried and trusted CUPRAs to the pack, while Jeff Alden hopes to giant kill in the Gen 1 Opel Astra. As will new recruit Luke Allen in his Gen 1 Volkswagen Golf.

This blend of youth and experience ensures that battles will take place throughout the field – not just at the sharp end – making every race a must-watch affair.

Proven format, close competition

Renowned for its close, wheel-to-wheel racing, TCR UK continues to provide one of the most competitive platforms in British motorsport.
With tightly controlled technical regulations and a balance of performance model that keeps cars closely matched, the championship consistently delivers unpredictable results and dramatic on-track action.

The short, flowing nature of the Brands Hatch Indy circuit only adds to the spectacle, placing a premium on precision, racecraft and consistency from lights out to chequered flag.

Title race begins

As ever, the opening weekend of the season offers the first real indication of form—but with such a competitive entry list, picking an early favourite is no easy task.

What is certain, however, is that the battle for supremacy in 2026 will be hard-fought from the very first lap.

With teams primed and anticipation building, the stage is set for the TCR UK Championship to once again deliver high-octane entertainment.
Brands Hatch provides the perfect backdrop—and by the end of the weekend, the first chapter of the 2026 title fight will begin. Hold onto your hats!.

BARC hatches a packed schedule for Easter spectacular at Brands Hatch

The 2026 British Automobile Racing Club season continues this weekend as the BARC descends on Brands Hatch for a blockbuster two-day meeting on the Indy circuit.

Taking place across the 4-5 April, the event marks the club’s first visit of the year to the iconic Kent venue – and with a packed timetable featuring championship openers, returning favourites and monstrous acts, all signs point towards an Easter weekend to remember.

Heavyweight Headliners

Topping the bill will be the British Truck Racing Championship, which begins its 2026 campaign in spectacular fashion.

With machines producing more than 1,000bhp and weighing in excess of five tonnes, the series delivers a unique brand of wheel-to-wheel action that has become a staple of the UK motorsport scene. Fans will be treated to five races across the weekend, ensuring plenty of opportunities to witness the big rigs in full flight.

Packed programme all weekend

Alongside the Trucks is a behemoth of a timetable – there will be no shortage of entertainment from lights out to chequered flag come Sunday evening.

The TCR UK Championship kicks off its season too, bringing ultra-competitive touring car action to the Indy layout. Meanwhile, the ever-popular MINI CHALLENGE Clubsport also gets underway, promising close, high-energy racing in the one-make formula.

The Civic Cup boasts the biggest grid of the weekend with over 30 Civics all set to buzz around the short, sharp Indy layout.

Elsewhere, fans can look forward to the return of the Pickup Truck Racing Championship to the BARC package, adding even more variety to the weekend.

Rounding out the programme are the CMMC Super Saloons and Production Saloons who join the BARC timetable this Easter, ensuring a diverse mix of machinery that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of club racing in the UK.

A fan-favourite fixture

Traditionally one of the most well-attended events on the BARC calendar, the Brands Hatch Indy weekend has become synonymous with big grids, close racing and an electric atmosphere.

Set within the natural amphitheatre of the Indy circuit, spectators are able to take in almost the entire lap from a single vantage point – making it one of the best viewing experiences in British motorsport. Even better, you will be able to walk with giants on Sunday afternoon as BARC throws open the grid walk to all race goers to get a chance of seeing these machines up close.

From heavyweight trucks to nimble touring cars and everything in between, the stage is set for a full-throttle Easter weekend in Kent.
If the opening events of the season are anything to go by, fans can expect more of the same: close competition, diverse grids and non-stop track action as the BARC season continues to gather pace.

British F4 extends Wera Tools title partnership ahead of new season

The F4 British Championship certified by FIA and Motorsport UK have announced the extension of its partnership with with Wera Tools, which will see the global tool manufacturer continue as the series’ title sponsor for the 2026 season.

Continuing to be titled the ‘Wera Tools F4 British Championship certified by FIA’ for a second successive campaign, 2026 will mark the fifth year that the international hand tool company and the UK’s premier single-seater category have been in association with each other.

Ian Walford, Managing Director of Wera Tools UK, said: “British F4 is the pinnacle single-seater series in the UK. The championship is the best proving ground for young talent on these shores, not just behind the wheel, but in the garages also.

“Wera is a brand always looking to strive towards innovation and clever ways of working, and there are clear parallels with the hard work and dedication put in by the mechanics, engineers and drivers fighting it out for the top-step of the podium. Last year was an exemptional year for Wera Tools and the championship and we can’t wait to see what the 2026 season brings!”

Eve Lake-Grange, British F4 Championship Manager, added: “We’re delighted to continue our partnership with Wera Tools and look forward to strengthening what is an already successful collaboration over the course of the coming season.

“Wera Tools has fully embraced this partnership from the very beginning and the brilliant news is that it’s showing no signs of slowing down. British F4 prides itself on being the UK’s premier single-seater series and being aligned with a brand like Wera Tools reinforces that.

“We have, and will continue, to work closely with the team at Wera Tools to ensure we are delivering the absolute maximum to our teams, drivers and also the spectators, who are such an important part of our sport.”

The 2026 Wera Tools F4 British Championship certified by FIA season begins at Donington Park on the 18-19 April.

Porsche Great Britain announce Carwow as motorsport title partner

Carwow, one of the UK’s leading online destinations for car changing, has been announced as the the official title partner of Porsche Carrera Cup Great Britain and Porsche Sprint Challenge Great Britain for 2026.

As the new title partner, the Carwow logo will feature prominently in both championships operated by Porsche Cars Great Britain.

Furthermore, the championships will be known as the Porsche Carwow Carrera Cup Great Britain and the Porsche Carwow Sprint Challenge Great Britain.

Andy McGregor, Porsche Cars Great Britain Managing Director, said: “This collaboration marks an exciting new chapter, as we unite the rich heritage of Porsche Motorsport with Carwow’s modern approach to car changing.

“We look forward to inspiring and engaging our shared audience, as we explore the synergies between us throughout the exciting racing season ahead.”

James MacNaughton, Porsche Cars Great Britain Motorsport Manager, added: “We are delighted to welcome Carwow as title partner of Porsche Carrera Cup GB and Sprint Challenge GB, as we look forward to an important year of celebrations.

“Our championships continue to go from strength to strength, forming a crucial part of the Porsche Motorsport Pyramid, and providing a springboard for ambitious drivers to realise their racing dreams.”

Ben Carter, Carwow Chief Customer Marketing and Media Officer at Carwow, concluded: “We’ve been working with Porsche for many years across our editorial titles, and this partnership is a natural fit.

“The Carrera Cup and Sprint Challenge deliver some of the most exciting racing in the UK and we can’t wait to see the championships come to life across the 2026 season.”

Porsche Cars Great Britain begins its 2026 motorsport season at Donington Park in Leicestershire on the weekend of April 18-19, where the Porsche Carwow Carrera Cup Great Britain and Porsche Carwow Sprint Challenge Great Britain will race on the BTCC support bill.

Daryl De Leon leads the way at official BTCC pre-season test at Croft

The Kwik Fit British Touring Car Championship took centre stage at Croft Circuit this week (March 24-25) as thousands of fans flocked to the North Yorkshire venue for the first official pre-season test of 2026.

On what proved to be a busy couple of days on-track, where a total of 2,268 laps were amassed, West Surrey Racing’s Daryl De Leon walked away with the bragging rights as he set the ultimate pace.

The BMW 330i M Sport driver left it until Wednesday afternoon to show his hand, with his time of 1:20.417s dipping under Tom Ingram’s pole position benchmark from last season. When all was said and done, De Leon’s lap was the fastest to ever be recorded in a touring car around Croft.

Restart Racing’s James Dorlin had looked on course to claim top spot before De Leon pipped him to the post late on. The Hyundai i30N driver instead settled for second place, 0.027s shy of De Leon.

Reigning champion Ingram ended the test third on combined times having been the driver to beat on day one, while Charles Rainford and Tom Chilton completed a top five that was covered by two tenths of a second.

NAPA Racing UK’s Dan Cammish and Ash Sutton were next up in their new Ford Focus Titaniums while the second Restart Racing Hyundai of Chris Smiley also starred.

Rounding out the top ten was the lead Plato Racing Mercedes-AMG A35 Saloon of Dan Rowbottom and the first of the Toyota Corolla GR Sport’s of Josh Cook.

It must be noted of course that testing times are often treated with caution as teams and drivers carried out varying fuel load and tyre combinations throughout the two days of running.

Power Maxed Racing also wowed the crowds at Croft as Mikey Doble, Aiden Moffat and Dexter Patterson carried out extensive shakedowns on their all-new Audi S3 Saloons.

The Kwik Fit British Touring Car Championship now moves to Brands Hatch on April for the 2026 Season Launch, which will include the final pre-season test.

Click here for the final and full classification from testing.

BARC begins 2026 season in blockbuster fashion at Donington Park

The British Automobile Racing Club commenced its 2026 season in thrilling fashion at Donington Park this past weekend (March 21-22) as no less than 12 different championships lifted the curtain on their respective campaigns.

Following months of anticipation and excitement, the Club basked in the spring sunshine at the Leicestershire venue, packing in a total of 16 races across both days around the infamous Grand Prix circuit.

Headlining the action was a blockbuster 90-minute contest from the Britcar Endurance Championship; which boasted a bumper entry list made up of returning winners, credible contenders and as always, several new faces.

The opening day of the season ultimately proved to be a tale of two halves with the TrueMix Racing entry of Tom Walpole and Marc Kemp emerging as the drivers to beat during qualifying on Saturday morning.

After lighting up the timesheets in practice, the KTM X Bow GT-X duo laid down a true statement of intent as they paced the rest of the field to snare pole position, finishing almost two seconds ahead of SG Racing’s Mark Cunningham and Peter Cunningham.

Converting their front row start into an early lead as the lights went out, the TrueMix Racing squad had looked on course to put distance between themselves and their rivals in the opening exchanges however a small mistake towards the end of lap one saw them spin out of both first place and the race entirely.

Their unfortunate demise opened the door for Toro Verde GT driver Dean Burden to take control of proceedings, and he did so in emphatic fashion as he hustled his Porsche Cayman GT4 RS to the chequered flag more than a minute ahead of anyone else.

As they did in qualifying, the Cunningham’s claimed runners-up laurels in their Porsche 991.2 Cup car whilst the final spot on the podium was taken by Team BRIT’s Bobby Trundley, Aaron Morgan and their McLaren 570S GT4.

The Classic Touring Car Racing Club has become renowned for producing edge-of-the-seat entertainment down the years and that trend continued as its variety of tin top categories broke cover under the flight path of East Midlands airport.

Rolling back the years to a bygone era were the Pre-66 Touring Cars and they wowed the crowds with two action-packed contests that culminated in Piers Grange and Simon Gusterson – who were inseparable on-track throughout – tallying a win apiece.

Jonathan Corker enjoyed the perfect start to his Pre-83 Touring Cars title defence as he guided his Datsun 510 to a sublime double. Donning the mantel of defending champion, Corker was perfection personified as he charged to a pair of commanding race wins.

Closing out the Classic Touring Car Racing Club action were two races that amalgamated the Pre-93, Pre-03, Blue Oval Saloon Series and Thunder classes onto one grid. BMWs ruled the roost as Jasper Sapra and Dave Farrow each made their way to the top step of the podium.

Ollie Smith laid down his marker as serious contender for the coveted Junior Saloon Car Championship title this year after producing a wheel-perfect display over the course of the weekend.

Having lifted the Rookie Cup last season, Smith entered the new campaign as one to watch and he duly lived up to all expectations as he swept his way to a hat-trick of pole positions. The talented youngster then underlined his credentials by converting them into three flawless wins.

Behind Smith, Leon Holly twice finished in second place whilst there were also podiums for fellow sophomore racers Matthew Swatton, Martin Wright and Max Scharfeggar.

Over in the Adrian Flux Insurance MG Owners Club Championship, small margins proved to be the deciding factor in who walked away savouring the spoils of victory following two sublime races.

Jake McDermid opened his account for the season in a pulsating opener as he narrowly beat Robb Addison and Scott Bugner before Addison then turned the tables to prevail in race two after an almighty battle with McDermid.

Elsewhere, a potential star was born in the OT Coupe Cup with Toyo Tires as Nathan James Boyle announced himself in emphatic fashion. The youngster wasted no time in charging to pole in qualifying before claiming back-to-back wins ahead of Matthew Watson and Hazeem Zaki.

Completing the weekend’s on-track entertainment at Donington Park were two races from the Track Action Racing Club, where variety was the spice of life. Adam Croft and his Volkswagen Scirocco proved to be the class of the field as they bagged a brace of race wins.

To view the full classification of results from all sessions at Donington Park, CLICK HERE.

You can also re-watch all the action from the BARC’s opening race meeting of the 2026 season by visiting the Club’s official YouTube channel HERE.

BARC is Back – racing resumes this weekend!

The moment has arrived. The first event on the 2026 British Automobile Racing Club calendar has arrived and what a weekend we have lined-up to kick-start our season.

The first race of the year honour goes to the Classic Touring Car Racing Club with their exciting Pre ’66 grid packed full of Mini’s, Cortina’s, Imp’s and the odd American Muscle car thrown in for good measure.

Track Action is back for a two-day event this weekend with a mix of cars gathered for two encounters over the weekend – look out too for the Peugeot 206 Cup which features in this grid.

BARC’s premier endurance racing series – the Britcar Endurance Championship will feature a 90 minute enduro to kick-start the season with well timed driver swaps and strategy a big part of the race result.

The CTCRC have pulled together a mouth watering collection to take to Donington with Pre ‘93, Pre ‘03, BOSS and Thunder Saloons all mixed together for an epic encounter, while the Pre’83 grid will round out the proceedings on Saturday with a grid pull of seventies and early eighties icons.

The Junior Saloon Car Championship is back and a new intake will all be jostling for position as the close quarters hot hatch formula always produces excellent racing.

As Britcar depart Saturday evening, joining us for even more racing on the Sunday will be the MG Owners Club with a massive 34 car grid, while the door-to-door racing in the Coupe Cup will bring down the curtain on a 16 race weekend.

When is the next BARC weekend?
This weekend: Saturday 21 March and Sunday 22 March
Where are the events being held? Donington Park
Address: Donington Park, Castle Donington, Derby DE74 2RP
What is racing this weekend?
We have a jam-packed schedule for you this weekend with something for every taste. From the Briticar Endurance Championship, Coupe Cup, MG Owners Club Championship, Track Action, Junior Saloon Car Championship and multiple Classic Touring Car Racing Club grids including Pre ‘66, Group 1/ Pre ‘83, Pre ‘93, Pre ‘03, BOSS and Thunder Saloons.

If I can’t get trackside or I am outside of the UK?
If you can’t make it to the first weekend of the year at Donington… fear not… we have you covered! You can follow everything. The BARC YouTube channel will be broadcasting all the racing action live and for free – no matter where you are around the world on Saturday or Sunday. Be sure to subscribe for the latest streams – www.youtube.com/@britishautomobileracingclub

How can I watch in person?
To go trackside at Donington, tickets start from £17 for an adult ticket for either day online and £19 on the gate. £26 for a weekend ticket, with discounts for teens and senior citizens available and children aged 13 and under go free.

Tickets can be purchased here: https://tickets.msv.com/calendar/donington-park/2026/march/classic-touring-car-weekend/default

What time are things happening on track at Donington?
Free Practice heads the order on Saturday with on track action from 09:10 with the first race at 14:10.
On Sunday Qualifying begins at 09:10 with racing starting at 10:20.

Do you have any more information?
We have a few other handy links that might be useful to help you enjoy the first event of the year

Donington Park – Key Links

Live Timing and Commentary: https://www.tsl-timing.com/event/261263
Information*: https://www.barc.net/event/barc-race-meeting-donington-park-grand-prix-march-21-22/
Entry List: www.barc.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/HQ01-DON-Entry-List-for-WEB-V2.pdf
Live Coverage Saturday: https://www.youtube.com/live/othzQYHPuqg?si=mlG5ynOlYHdfZn-S
Live Coverage Sunday: https://www.youtube.com/live/bqRRuK_GIb4?si=Kmr2720u1zjFyCEF

* Timetable – Subject to adjustments prior and during the race meeting

It’s so good to be back!

2026 Britcar Endurance Championship Grid Taking Shape

As preparations and excitement build for the 2026 season, the grid for the BARC-supported Britcar Endurance Championship is developing into one of the most diverse and competitive line-ups seen in recent years.

Since mid-December, a steady stream of driver and team announcements has underlined the championship’s continuing appeal, bringing together proven race winners, emerging young talent and an increasingly broad range of machinery across the GT, GT4 and Trophy categories. Here’s a recap as we arrive into the first round.

Experience Meets New Blood

The winter announcement period opened with a blend of established Britcar names and exciting new entrants. Among the first to confirm was rookie Neville Voss, who will embark on on a campaign alongside Ali Topley in a Ferrari 488 Challenge Evo with 24-Racing by Team BRIT – adding both fresh talent and the unmistakable GT presence of the Prancing Horse to the grid in selected rounds this season.

At the opposite end of the experience scale, Datum Motorsport announced the return of Maurizio Sciglio and Marco Anastasi – a pairing long associated with consistency and front-running pace in Britcar competition. Their presence once again underlines the championship’s competitive appeal, with the Scottish-domiciled Italians targeting further silverware in 2026.

Porsche representation will also be strong in 2026, with SG Racing confident of mounting a title challenge in their 991 Cup car with Mark and Peter Cunnigham at the wheel, while Full Throttle Motorsport will have a 992 variant at their disposal this year. Torro Verde add to the Porsche presence with two fresh GT4 Cayman models.

Continuity is further reinforced by the return of reigning Trophy class champion Chris Murphy, who remains with Woodrow Motorsport in BMW M3 machinery. His reappearance immediately sets a benchmark for the Trophy field.

Team BRIT return with a two-car effort in 2026 and, after missing out on the title by the narrowest of margins, the disability-led racing programme is determined to fight at the front once again. Bobby Trundley steps up into the McLaren GT4 car alongside Aaron Morgan, while Asha Silva – Trundley’s 2025 team-mate – partners Noah Cosby in the BMW M4.

Strength and Variety in the GT Field

BMW continues to be the most numerically represented manufacturer so far, with M3, M2 and M4 GT4 Evo entries spread across multiple teams. UBIQ Brookspeed’s BMW M4 GT4 Evo pairing of Andrew Dawber and Nathan Wright adds significant strength to the GT4 ranks, while further BMW-powered entries run by Ian Lawson and Geoff Steel Racing – including Julian McBride, Pete Moulsdale, Steve Kent and Toad Motorsport-backed William Lynch – underline the brand’s ongoing popularity within the paddock.

At the same time, McLaren representation is growing in 2026. Richard and Michael Wheeler will contest a full season in a McLaren 570S GT4 following their late-season debut in 2025, while Simon Clark’s move into McLaren machinery brings additional experience and pedigree to the expanding McLaren contingent.

Manufacturer diversity is further boosted by Martin Addison’s step into the GT category with an Aston Martin Vantage, reinforcing the championship’s reputation for welcoming a wide range of competitive GT platforms.

Speaking of diversity – the Austrian brand KTM known mostly for its two-wheel products will be represented on the grid with Robert Taylor bringing the unique KTM XBOW GT4 EVO SPX to the Briticar fold this year. There will be two KTM cars on the grid with Tom Walpole and Marc Kemp harnessing a unique Reiter GT4 version as well. Look out too for the gorgeous Ligier JS2R making its Briticar debut, in the hands of Ashley Woodman this weekend.

Going for Trophy Honours

The Trophy class once again demonstrates Britcar’s strength as a proving ground for both family pairings and emerging drivers.
Ginetta remains the car of choice in the Trophy field, with multiple G56 GTA and G55 entries already confirmed. Michael Knibbs and Aidan Hills team up in a G55, while Elliot and Ian Wilson continue their father-and-son partnership in the G56 after a promising rookie season. Project 29:7 Racing also commits to a full campaign with similar machinery.

Youth development remains a key theme, highlighted by Archie Buttle and Freddie Ingram stepping into full-season programmes following selective outings in 2025. Alongside them, experienced Trophy regulars Dennis Storey and Alan McCullough (No Pressure Racing, BMW 130), as well as the returning JLC Group Motorsport SEAT León Supercopa of brothers Chris and Jamie Hayes, combine ambition with hard-earned endurance know-how as they look to challenge at the front of their respective classes. Race Car Experiences will also bring the distinctive Peugeot 308 Racing Cup back to the grid, with Henry Swanson leading their charge.

The grid already reflects Britcar’s defining strength: a healthy mix of returning champions, ambitious rookies and long-standing partnerships, all contributing to depth and unpredictability across the field. With further announcements still expected, the foundations are firmly in place for a compelling 2026 Britcar Endurance Championship season which gets underway at Donington Park on the 21st March.