Tom Ingram, the esteemed two-time champion of the British Touring Car Championship, has officially prolonged his association with Excelr8 Motorsport, confirming his tenure with the Hyundai-backed squad until at least the close of the 2029 racing season. While his participation for the immediate next season was anticipated following announcements regarding junior talent Noah Young's progression, this new agreement adds an additional two years, covering 2028 and 2029, to his commitment.
It was understood that Ingram's contract for the upcoming year was already in place. However, the subsequent extension for a further two campaigns provides substantial positive momentum for the BTCC, mirroring Alliance Racing's recent successful retention of Ash Sutton for an impressive five additional seasons. This trend of top drivers committing to long-term deals highlights a growing confidence and stability within the championship.
The Vertu-sponsored team is expected to continue fielding the Hyundai i30 N Fastback for its eighth consecutive BTCC season next year, with plans for ongoing development throughout the winter period. Nevertheless, there remains a distinct possibility of introducing new vehicle hardware for the 2028 season, suggesting a forward-thinking approach to maintain competitiveness.
Expressing his profound satisfaction, Ingram stated, "It goes without saying that I’m delighted to extend my deal with Team Vertu to at least the end of the 2029 season as this team feels like home and there is nowhere else I’d rather be.” Reflecting on his journey with the team, with whom he has amassed 29 race victories and secured the 2022 and 2025 championship titles, he added, "When I first signed with Excelr8, this was a team that was still the new kid on the block with lofty ambitions of making it to the top, but I knew there was the chance to do something special.” He further emphasized, “Over the last six seasons, we have shared so many highlights – from the first win at Snetterton through to twice lifting the title at Brands Hatch – and I’m hugely excited to see what we can achieve together over the next three seasons. Reclaiming the title next season is the obvious target, and everyone involved in the team is fully focused on making sure that we are in the best possible position to do that next season.”
Justina Williams, the owner of Excelr8, echoed Ingram's sentiments, asserting, “From the moment he first got behind the wheel of the Hyundai, Tom has become a crucial part of the Excelr8 story and his drive and desire to succeed has been reflected in the results we have secured together over the past six seasons.” She concluded with optimism, “I have no doubt there will be plenty more silverware to come and we’re all working hard to challenge for title number three in 2027.”
RMC Motorsport has offered a progress report on its 2027 World Rally Championship contender, indicating significant advancements in the car's development. The Spanish team, in collaboration with RFEDA, is set to unveil its new vehicle in the coming weeks, aiming for a partial season debut next year. This update highlights the meticulous engineering and design efforts, particularly focusing on the innovative headlight system, as the team prepares to enter the pinnacle of rally racing.
Carlos Sainz discusses his on-track interactions with former Ferrari teammate Charles Leclerc, acknowledging the inherent pressures of competing for victories in Formula 1. He highlights how these intense battles, though sometimes misconstrued by fans and media, were always resolved amicably between the drivers, emphasizing the unique challenges faced by top-tier F1 teams with equally ambitious talents.
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Marc Marquez publicly supported his brother Alex's decision to avoid a risky maneuver during the recent Malaysian Grand Prix. He humorously stated that endangering a sibling's championship aspirations would be unbrotherly. With a substantial lead in the MotoGP standings, Marquez is now focused on the Qatar Grand Prix, aiming to solidify his position rather than take unnecessary risks in pursuit of an early title victory.
Alan Permane has committed his future to the Racing Bulls Formula 1 team, signing a new contract to remain as team principal until the conclusion of the 2031 season. This extension comes as the team celebrates significant performance improvements, including a projected fifth-place finish in the constructors' championship, a historic achievement since its inception as Minardi in 1985.