Author Archives: Daniel Smith

  1. Mission Motorsport and BRSCC launch 2026 Race of Remembrance

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    The British Racing & Sports Car Club (BRSCC) is pleased to confirm that preparations are well underway for the 2026 Race of Remembrance, with the Club once again working alongside Mission Motorsport to deliver one of the most meaningful and distinctive events on the UK motorsport calendar.

    Taking place at the Trac-Mon Anglesey Circuit in North Wales on 6–8 November 2026, the Race of Remembrance brings together military veterans, service leavers and members of the wider motorsport community to mark Remembrance Weekend in a truly special and respectful way. Official race entries for the 2026 event will open on Friday 1st May.

    The Race of Remembrance is the flagship event of Mission Motorsport – The Forces’ Motorsport Charity – and is centred around a 12-hour endurance race which famously pauses on Remembrance Sunday morning to allow all involved to reflect on the service given, and sacrifice made, by members of the Armed Forces in conflicts past and present.

    This November will mark the 12th staging of the Race of Remembrance, and following another exceptional event in 2025, organisers and partners are committed to building on that success to deliver an even stronger event in 2026.

    Last year’s race saw victory taken by the Rob Boston Racing squad, whose Lotus Elise S1 driven by Lee Brooks, Ben Brooks and Phil Grayson overcame a field of 49 other teams across the full 12-hour contest.

    Since its inception in 2012, Mission Motorsport has had a profound and lasting impact in supporting the recovery and rehabilitation of military service personnel through involvement within the motorsport and automotive industries. The charity has helped more than 1,000 injured or sick members of the Armed Forces into supported employment, assisted over 2,000 veterans into employment through industry partnerships, and engaged more than 3,500 members of the Armed Forces community through recovery sport initiatives.

    Named ‘Event of the Year’ in 2024 by Motorsport UK, the governing body for four-wheeled motorsport in Britain, the Race of Remembrance continues to attract a diverse grid of competitors, open to a variety of race cars, the vehicle as stipulated by the regulations must be no more than 250bhp per tonne.

    Alex Atherton, Managing Director of Mission Motorsport, said: “This will be my first Race of Remembrance, and I am deeply honoured to have the opportunity to be part of such an incredible event. As we prepare to open race entries on 1 May 26, I would like to extend my sincere thanks and gratitude to the outstanding Mission Motorsport team, our friends at BRSCC, and all of our partners , volunteers and competitors. Their support, dedication, and commitment are what make this event possible, and I look forward to seeing everyone at Anglesey for what promises to be a truly special occasion.”

    Luke Souch, Head of Club Operations, the BRSCC, said: “We are absolutely delighted to be working alongside Mission Motorsport once again to deliver the 2026 Race of Remembrance. This event holds a unique place in the UK motorsport calendar, and it is a privilege for the BRSCC to play a role in supporting such a meaningful occasion that brings the motorsport community together to honour and remember those who have served.”

  2. Kumho Tyre to Become Title Sponsors of the BRSCC Mazda Clubman Championship for 2026

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    The British Racing & Sports Car Club (BRSCC) is delighted to announce that Kumho Tyre is the new title sponsor of the BRSCC Mazda Clubman Championship for the 2026 race season.

    The agreement marks a continuation of the close relationship between the BRSCC and one of the world’s leading tyre manufacturers, bringing together a respected global brand and one of the Club’s most accessible and competitive categories. Under the new arrangement, the championship will carry Kumho Tyre branding throughout the 2026 season, reinforcing the company’s commitment to supporting grassroots motorsport and club-level racing across the UK.

    The Mazda Clubman Championship continues to provide an affordable and highly competitive environment for drivers looking to enjoy close, evenly matched racing with production-based Mazda machinery. With strong interest already being shown ahead of the new season, the addition of Kumho as title sponsor further strengthens the championship’s platform and long-term prospects.

    As part of the partnership, Kumho will benefit from prominent brand visibility across the championship, including on official communications, event materials and digital platforms, while also engaging directly with competitors and teams throughout the season.

    Kumho will continue to provide its ECSTA HS52 as the control tyre through its nominated tyre supplier for the championship, Mr Tyre Motorsport.

    John Thrupp, Marketing Director, Kumho Tyre UK, said: “We are delighted to become title sponsors of the BRSCC Mazda Clubman Championship for the 2026 season. Supporting grassroots motorsport is an important part of our commitment to the racing community, and the Mazda Clubman Championship provides an excellent platform to showcase our brand while contributing to the continued growth of club motorsport. We look forward to working closely with the BRSCC and its competitors throughout what promises to be an exciting season.”

    Greg Graham, on behalf of the BRSCC, added: “We are pleased to confirm Kumho Tyre as title sponsors of the Mazda Clubman Championship for 2026. Kumho is a globally recognised brand with a strong reputation for quality and performance, and their support represents a significant boost for the championship and its competitors. The fact that both the Mazda Clubman Championship and the BRSCC Mazda Championship run on Kumho tyres provides a strong and consistent platform for our Mazda racing community, and we look forward to developing this partnership over the course of the season.”

    With preparations for the 2026 season continuing at pace, registration and entries are looking strong, ensuring competitors can look ahead to another year of competitive Mazda racing.

  3. Mark Jones Launches New Scholarship to Support the Next Generation of Motorsport Talent

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    A brand-new Mazda MX-5 scholarship has been launched by motorsport enthusiast and businessman Mark Jones, with a clear mission: to bridge the financial and developmental gap facing emerging racing drivers in the UK and beyond.

    Driven by a lifelong passion for motorsport, Jones says the scholarship is about creating accessible, structured progression for young drivers who have the talent — but not always the backing — to move forward in their careers.”

    Inspired by Motorsport History

    Jones’ vision is rooted in personal experience and inspiration from past success stories. He recalls how earlier scholarship initiatives helped launch the career of Kelvin Burt, who progressed from grassroots racing to become the 1993 champion of the British Formula 3 Championship, one of the UK’s premier junior single-seater categories.

    Burt later went on to compete in the British Touring Car Championship, including driving for the factory-backed Volvo team during the highly competitive Super Touring era.

    He also credits figures such as Martin Hines as major influences.

    “People like Martin Hines inspired young drivers to go further. I recognised many years ago how important scholarships are as stepping stones. There are always pockets of drivers with real ability — they just need the opportunity.”

    Why Mazda MX-5?

    While the scholarship is rooted in UK competition, Jones deliberately chose the Mazda MX-5 platform for its global reach.

    “Mazda isn’t just a UK series — it’s effectively a world series. You can race in America, you can race in Europe. That gives drivers access to international markets. The aim is to recognise that potential and help someone compete on a world stage.”

    Jones ultimately hopes to see drivers progress into international endurance racing — even as far as the FIA World Endurance Championship — while acknowledging that every journey is different.

    “The ultimate dream is Formula 1 — but not everything happens like that. What matters is creating real progression.”

    Addressing the Development Gap

    According to Jones, one of the biggest challenges in modern motorsport is stagnation. Too many drivers remain in the same category year after year due to financial constraints or lack of guidance.

    “There are far too many people racing the same thing as the year before because they can’t make that next step. Some of it is budget, but some of it is support — helping them move from karts to cars, helping them understand the process.”

    Jones emphasises that modern racing success requires far more than speed alone.

    “It’s not just about driving fast. It’s about how you market yourself, how you present yourself, how you perform in interviews. Motorsport is global now — it’s across multiple media platforms. Drivers need to be promotable.”

    Having stepped away from his own racing career to focus on business, Jones admits his journey heavily influenced his desire to give back.

    “I loved racing. I learnt huge life lessons from it. But I realised I couldn’t make the living I needed to, so I stepped away completely. Looking back, I would have spent more time on it. I would have travelled more. That experience drives me now to help someone else go further.”

    Building the Right Environment

    The scholarship will operate in collaboration with experienced MX-5 specialist Paul Sheard Autosport, ensuring technical expertise and competitive equipment. Jones believes pairing the right driver with the right team is essential.

    He also highlights the wider motorsport ecosystem as a powerful environment for opportunity, referencing recent experiences at Silverstone Circuit with United Autosports, and the value of community networks such as the British Racing & Sports Car Club.

    “The car racing paddock is full of opportunity. It’s not just about racing — it’s about business, relationships, and environment. It’s a place where enthusiastic people come together.”

    Defining Success

    In its first year, the goal is ambitious but clear.

    “Success for me in year one is getting the scholarship driver onto the podium — and winning a couple of rounds. That would show we’re genuinely competitive.”

    But Jones stresses this is not a short-term initiative.

    “This isn’t about one year. It’s about building something sustainable. It’s about fuelling the motorsport stars of today — because they are the stars of tomorrow.”

    A Message to Young Drivers

    Jones’ message to aspiring racers is simple:

    “There’s something more. If you purpose yourself properly, you could be the next big thing. Not everyone gets the opportunity — so when it’s there, you have to take it.”

    With a clear pathway, experienced backing, and a focus on long-term progression, the new Mazda MX-5 Scholarship aims to provide more than funding — it aims to provide belief, structure, and a genuine route forward.

  4. Julian “Julze” Batten-Dale (1970 – 2026)

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    The British Racing & Sports Car Club is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Julian “Julze” Batten-Dale, a much-valued member of our community and a dedicated club volunteer and official.
    Julze began his journey with the BRSCC through a taster day at Silverstone, sparking a lasting passion for motorsport and the club. From those early days, he became a familiar and trusted presence at BRSCC events, giving his time generously with enthusiasm, professionalism, and a warm sense of humour.
    For over a decade, Julze, alongside his wife Rachel, served as Pit Lane Manager within the British GT Championship, a vital role central to the safe and fair running of events.
    He oversaw pre-event pit lane checks, worked closely with teams on safety requirements, and liaised with officials and Race Control to ensure the pit lane ran in accordance with regulations.
    In addition, Julze was a Motorsport UK Scrutineer, supporting BRSCC events by ensuring vehicles met the required safety standards.
    He was also a longstanding member of the club’s Rescue crew, playing an important role in trackside safety and incident response, and always carrying out his duties with calm professionalism and care.
    Respected, dependable, and always approachable, Julze was a friend to many and will be greatly missed across the paddock.
    Luke Souch, BRSCC Head of Club Operations, said: “I still remember meeting Julze at his very first taster day at Silverstone, and from that moment on he became such a valued part of our community. What started as curiosity quickly turned into a genuine passion, and over the years he gave so much of himself to the club and to everyone around him.
    “Julze was someone you could always rely on. He wasn’t just a respected official; he was a friend to so many of us in the paddock.
    “His loss leaves a real void, and he will be deeply missed. My thoughts are with Rachel and his family at this incredibly difficult time.”
    Julze’s contribution to the BRSCC and the wider motorsport community will not be forgotten. We extend our sincere condolences to his family, friends, and all who knew him during this difficult time.

  5. Silverlake Automotive Recycling Announced as Title Sponsor of 2026 BRSCC DS3 Cup Championship & Production Cup

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    The BRSCC is pleased to announce that Silverlake Automotive Recycling has agreed a new partnership to become title sponsor of the 2026 BRSCC DS3 Cup Championship & Production Cup.

    The series will be branded the Silverlake DS3 Cup Championship & Production Cup for the upcoming season, further strengthening Silverlake’s growing involvement within the BRSCC paddock and its support of accessible, competitive club-level motorsport.

    The DS3 Cup Championship & Production Cup continues to attract steadily growing grids thanks to its focus on close, cost-controlled racing , allowing competitors to race either the full DS3 Cup Championship specification cars or compete in mixed class Production Cup specification cars of all makes, providing many opportunities for drivers to experience fair and competitive racing throughout the field.

    As part of the agreement, Silverlake branding will feature prominently across the championship / series, including on all competing race cars, social media output and event coverage throughout the 2026 season.

    In addition to their title sponsorship, Silverlake’s well-known expertise in automotive recycling and vehicle parts supply makes them a natural partner for the championship, with the company already supporting many competitors across the BRSCC paddock with parts and components.

    Silverlake Managing Director Allen Prebble commented: “We’re delighted to become title sponsor of the DS3 Cup Championship & Production Cup for 2026. The series represents exactly what grassroots motorsport should be about – competitive racing, sensible costs and a great community in the paddock. Many of the cars use components that are closely related to vehicles we work with every day, so it’s a natural fit for us and we’re very pleased to be supporting the championship and its competitors.”

    Greg Graham of the BRSCC added: “Silverlake are fantastic supporters of grassroots motorsport and it’s always a pleasure working with them. Their involvement in the DS3 Cup Championship & Production Cup is a perfect fit for the series, and we’re delighted to welcome them as title sponsor for 2026. With growing interest in the championship and a strong grid expected, we’re looking forward to an exciting season ahead under the Silverlake banner.”

    Using recycled OEM parts enables racing teams to reduce their carbon footprint and cut their repair and maintenance costs, helping to making motorsports more cost effective and accessible. Competitors are encouraged to contact Silverlake when requiring parts support prior to events, or directly where Silverlake are on site at race weekends.

    Drivers interested in competing in the Silverlake DS3 Cup Championship & Production Cup in 2026 can find further information about the series, regulations and registration details by following the links below.

    Silverlake Racing: https://silverlake.co.uk/racing-series/

    BRSCC DS3 Cup: https://brscc.nuimage.website/formulae/silverlake-ds3-cup/

    Production Cup: https://brscc.nuimage.website/formulae/silverlake-production-cup/

  6. Audi TT Cup returns for 2026; Bigger platform, same close racing

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    Audi TT Cup car owners and teams are reminded that, for the 2026 season, the Audi TT Cup will compete as a stand-alone class within the new-for-2026 RacingLine VW Audi Racing Championship. This structure ensures the continued presence and identity of the Audi TT Cup platform while placing it within a broader and competitive multi-marque environment.

    Audi TT Cup cars that have previously competed in the Audi TT Cup Championship remain fully technically compliant for participation in the Audi TT Cup class for the 2026 season. No additional technical changes or upgrades are required in order to race within the class.

    To further strengthen the class identity and to provide Audi TT Cup competitors with the best possible opportunity to race directly against one another, the Audi TT Cup class will be positioned at the front of the grid within the RacingLine VW Audi Racing Championship race formations. This approach is intended to maintain the close, competitive racing that has been a hallmark of the Audi TT Cup, while also ensuring clear visibility for the class within the wider championship structure.

    For the 2026 season, the championship registration fee is £195, with double-header race entry fees set at £435 and triple-headers at £495, reinforcing the strong value proposition available to competitors.

    Teams and drivers should also note that even if the technical specification of their Audi TT race car has been changed from the previous Audi TT Cup specification, they are still very welcome to join the championship. Such cars may be entered into the Open class, or alternatively into one of the Classic VW Cup classes, ensuring there remains a competitive home within the championship structure for a wide range of Audi TT race cars.

    For 2026, the Audi TT Cup class represents outstanding value for money points-scoring-championship racing for anyone who owns an Audi TT Cup race car, combining competitive track time, clear class identity, and accessible entry costs within a professionally run national race programme.

    The first event of the season takes place at Brands Hatch Indy on Saturday 11th April, and there’s still plenty of time to get registered and secure your race entry to join the grid with the Audi TT Cup drivers already signed up.

    Find out more: https://brscc.nuimage.website/formulae/volkswagen-audi-racing-championship/

     

  7. Silverlake Automotive Recycling Partners with BRSCC as Title Sponsor for 2026 Silverstone 24 Hour

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    The BRSCC is delighted to announce that Silverlake Automotive Recycling has agreed a new partnership to become the event sponsor for the club’s flagship endurance race, the 2026 Silverstone 24 Hour.

    The event will officially be branded the Silverlake Silverstone 24 Hour, reinforcing Silverlake’s long-standing association with one of the most anticipated endurance races on the UK club motorsport calendar.

    As part of the partnership, all race cars across every class competing in the event will display Silverlake branding, ensuring strong visibility throughout the paddock and across all event coverage. Silverlake’s race team will also have at least two entries competing in the race, further strengthening their direct involvement with the event on-track.

    In addition to their sponsorship presence, Silverlake will provide significant practical support to competitors across the weekend. Using recycled OEM parts enables racing teams to reduce their carbon footprint and cut their repair and maintenance costs, helping to making motorsports more cost effective and accessible. The company will bring a comprehensive package of quality-graded, warranty assured, recycled parts for multiple classes to the circuit, making parts readily available to teams and drivers competing in the race. Silverlake will also operate on-site tyre fitting facilities for the duration of the event, offering additional convenience and support for teams during the demanding 24-hour race.

    Silverlake Managing Director Allen Prebble commented: “The Silverstone 24 Hour is one of the standout events of the race season and something we always look forward to being involved with. It’s a fantastic showcase for grassroots endurance racing and the atmosphere around the event is always brilliant. We’re delighted to be partnering with the BRSCC to support the race as title sponsor and to help provide parts and services to competitors throughout the weekend.”

    Speaking on behalf of the BRSCC, Greg Graham added: “It’s always a pleasure working with Silverlake and we greatly value their continued support. They already have a strong association with the 24-hour event, and this partnership strengthens both the visibility and the value we can offer them in return. With multiple classes competing in the 2026 race, it’s set to be an exciting and memorable highlight of the season.”

    Competitors requiring parts support prior to and during the event are encouraged to contact Silverlake directly with any enquiries regarding components or services that may be available throughout the weekend.

    To find out more about the Silverlake Silverstone 24 Hour and how to submit your race entry, please follow the links below.

    Event website: https://brscc.nuimage.website/events/2026-brscc-silverstone-24-hours/

    Silverlake Racing: https://silverlake.co.uk/racing-series/

     

  8. AD Modular partner with the BRSCC

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    The British Racing & Sports Car Club (BRSCC) is delighted to announce that AD Modular will become the new title sponsors of the BRSCC Mazda Championship ahead of the 2026 season.

    With AD Modular being owned by Mazda racer Andy Gilligan, the new partnership brings on board a company which already has strong links to club motorsport and the championship itself. Andy is an enthusiastic supporter of Mazda racing within the BRSCC paddock and is keen to help drive the continued growth and visibility of the championship.

    Under the new agreement, all cars will run AD Modular Mazda Championship branding, marking an exciting new chapter for one of the club’s most competitive and popular categories.

    AD Modular specialises in the design, construction, delivery and refurbishment of high-quality modular buildings and cabins, providing flexible and cost-effective space solutions for both commercial and domestic clients. Working across sectors including education, NHS facilities and private projects, the family-run company delivers compliant, practical spaces alongside secure containers and roller shutter units for storage and workspace use.

    In addition to this title sponsorship commitment, Andy in partnership with Mark Jones and his company Thermal Road Repairs, assisted by Paul Sheard Autosport will also be launching an exciting new Mazda Youth Development Race Scholarship, an initiative designed to support emerging talent within the championship. Further details about the scholarship programme will be announced ahead of the start of the 2026 season.

    Mark’s company Thermal Road Repairs specialises in sustainable, high-performance road repair solutions using advanced patented infrared technology. The company’s innovative pothole repair systems recycle existing asphalt on-site to create seamless, joint-free repairs that are faster, more durable and significantly lower in carbon impact than traditional road maintenance methods.

    With strong grids, close competition and an ever-growing community of teams and drivers, the BRSCC Mazda Championship continues to be a cornerstone of the Club’s racing portfolio, and the addition of AD Modular and Thermal Road Repairs as partners signals an exciting step forward as the championship continues to expand and evolve.

    The BRSCC warmly welcomes this new title sponsorship and extended partnership programme, and looks forward to working closely with Andy Gilligan, Mark Jones and Paul Sheard Autosport through the coming season.

  9. Durley Garage Announced as Title Sponsor of the Fiesta ST150 Challenge

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    The BRSCC is delighted to welcome Durley Garage as the title sponsor of the BRSCC Fiesta ST150 Challenge for the 2026 race season.

    The partnership will see the well-established family-run garage support one of the UK’s most popular club-level single-make championships, with all competing cars displaying Durley Garage windscreen sunstrip branding throughout the season.

    The Fiesta ST150 Challenge continues to be a strong and accessible championship within the BRSCC portfolio, and early signs suggest that the 2026 season will once again feature impressive grids. With almost 30 championship registrations already received, and further cars currently being built or refreshed ahead of the new campaign, the future of the Mk6 Fiesta race cars remains extremely positive.

    Durley Garage is a well-established family business based in Prenton on the Wirral, with more than 40 years of experience providing high quality vehicle servicing, MOT testing and repair services. The company offers a full range of workshop facilities for all makes and models of cars, supported by a friendly and experienced team of technicians committed to delivering professional service and workmanship.

    Graham Malam, Director of Durley Garage & ST150 Challenge racer, said:
“We’re delighted to be supporting the BRSCC Fiesta ST150 Challenge for the 2026 season. Motorsport has always been something we enjoy following, and the ST150 championship represents everything that’s great about grassroots racing – competitive grids, affordable cars and a fantastic paddock atmosphere. We’re really pleased to be involved and look forward to seeing the Durley Garage branding out on track across the season.”

    Greg Graham, representing the BRSCC, added:
“We’re delighted to welcome Durley Garage as title sponsors of the Fiesta ST150 Challenge for 2026. The championship has continued to grow in popularity and it’s great to have a committed partner supporting the series. We look forward to working closely with Graham and the team to deliver strong media visibility for Durley Garage across the coming race season.”

    With healthy grids already forming and a strong community of drivers continuing to support the championship, the Durley Garage Fiesta ST150 Challenge is set to deliver another exciting season of racing in 2026 – demonstrating that these hugely entertaining Mk6 Fiesta race cars still have many years of competition ahead of them.

    https://www.durleygaragemot.co.uk/

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