Historic machinery at BTCC events?

The BTCC’s new boss has given a clear indication that races for historic and classic machinery could feature in the series’ support race package next season.

Richard West commented recently that he is on the lookout for ‘noisy’ and ‘spectacular cars’ to be involved in the programme at times during the 13-meeting calendar. The BTCC meetings will feature three races for the headline category and three permanent support races for Renault Clios, Renault Sport single-seaters and Lotus Elises. That leaves space for one or two guest races and West’s comments point to series like the Thoroughbred Grand Prix Car and International Supersports Cup being attractive to him.

In April 2000, TGP cars guested on a BTCC programme at Brands Hatch and proved popular with the spectators, and further moves of this nature now seem likely. West is committed to rebuilding the popularity of the BTCC and sees the inclusion of high-profile historic and classic series as one way of broadening its appeal. PL