Photo: Excelr8

Excelr8 Motorsport joins BTCC grid with MG

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Excelr8 Motorsport make the move into the BTCC next season after securing a deal to take over the running of the MG6 GT machines that were campaigned by AmD Tuning this year.

The Norfolk-based squad has purchased the two cars, together with the TOCA BTCC Licences (TBLs) required to run them, and has already agreed terms with one un-named driver to be part of the programme.

Assessments are continuing in regards to the second seat, with further news to come in due course.

Excelr8 Motorsport is best known for its work in the MINI Challenge, with the move to the BTCC being seen as the logical next step for the team.

“We’ve been looking towards the BTCC for a few years now and when we got the chance to get hold of the MG GTs it was an opportunity that we couldn’t pass up, especially as it fits with our ‘Great British’ theme,” team manager Oliver Shepherd said.

“The BTCC is the highest-profile championship in the country, with some incredible drivers and very high-calibre teams, so we know we will have our work cut out to learn about the racing and the new cars. However, we have no doubt that we can compete at this level, and we’re currently working hard to finalise an exciting driver line up for 2019.

“This is a sizeable investment for Excelr8, and we’re acquiring all-new specialist equipment to make sure we have everything we need to hit the ground running next season and deliver the professionalism and presentation that we are known for in the MINI CHALLENGE”

The deal marks the start of a multi-year touring car programme for the team, which will evaluate other automotive brands for the future.

“It’s always great to see new teams joining the BTCC, and Excelr8 has certainly proven its capabilities and professionalism in the MINI CHALLENGE – a series which has already produced many current or recent BTCC drivers,” series director Alan Gow said. “Keeping the MG GTs on the grid is great news and ensures the BTCC retains a good diversity of manufacturers. I look forward to seeing how quickly Excelr8 and its new drivers can acclimatise to the BTCC and wish the team the best of luck ahead of next year.”