Charlie Martin named as latest MB Motorsport development driver

MB Motorsport has revealed the signing of Charlie Martin as its latest official Development Driver ahead of the new BTCC season.

Martin, who spent last season competing in the Praga class of the Britcar Championship, will test MB Motorsport’s WSR-run BMW 330e M Sport later in the season as part of the deal, which has been made possible thanks to a new partnership with ek robotics.

Keen to boost visibility for the LGBT+ community, Martin has also raced in recent seasons in the Ginetta GT5 Challenge and in Nurburgring Endurance Series; including an outing in the Nurburgring 24 Hours.

She follows in the footsteps of current DTM racer Esmee Hawkey, who tested MB Motorsport’s Honda Civic during her time in the role.

“I’m really excited to team up with ROKiT MB Motorsport alongside my valued partners, ek robotics,” she said. “The BTCC is the UK’s most prestigious racing championship so it is a real privilege to work with one of its most successful outfits.

“To be given the opportunity to work with the team and get behind the wheel as the BTCC embarks on its greenest season yet is a fantastic opportunity for me.

“I’d like to say a huge thank to everyone at ek robotics. This is a brilliant opportunity and they’ve helped to make it possible – it’s a pleasure to work with them and I’m really pleased to continue that partnership with this exciting news.”

Mark Blundell, MB Motorsport’s sporting director, said he was pleased to welcome Martin onto the BTCC programme.

“We’re delighted to welcome Charlie and ek robotics to the team,” he said. “Charlie is a true professional and her new role with her in the team will help as she explores future on-track opportunities as well.

“Empowering a diverse and inclusive culture in our team is very important to me and I know that is a passion which ek robotics share equally. Together we are delighted to be opening up this opportunity for Charlie to help take the next step in her career.

“Charlie is a truly inspirational character and her ambition and enthusiasm will be a great asset to the team.”