Charles Rainford to make BTCC debut with West Surrey Racing

Charles Rainford will make the step up to the British Touring Car Championship this year after signing with multiple champions West Surrey Racing.

The 26-year-old will partner race-winner Aiden Moffat under the LKQ Euro Car Parts banner, filling the remaining BMW 330i M Sport seat that was available at the Sunbury-based squad.

While 2025 will be his maiden campaign in the UK’s premier motorsport series, Rainford will be familiar to fans of the BTCC having spent the past four seasons competing on the TOCA support package in the Porsche Carrera Cup Great Britain.

Rainford first appeared in the one-make series in 2021 and clinched the Pro-Am Championship the following year. Last season he narrowly missed out on the coveted overall title, ending the year as runner-up.

“I’m so excited, not just to race in the BTCC, but with the most successful team on the grid in LKQ Euro Car Parts Racing with WSR,” said Rainford.

“Some of my earliest memories of racing are of watching the BTCC with my Dad, so to be there myself feels amazing.

“Walking into WSR HQ for the first time and seeing the trophies and the names on the wall like Senna, Mansell, Priaulx and Turkington was incredible.

“I’d love to see my name up there one day and if we can win the Jack Sears Trophy this year, that would be a great start.”

Dick Bennetts, WSR Team Principal, added: We’re very pleased to welcome Charles to LKQ Euro Car Parts Racing with WSR.

“He’s had an unusual route to the BTCC, but from what we’ve seen of him in Carrera Cup GB and, in particular, the calibre of driver he’s beaten there, we’re confident he has the speed and skill necessary to turn his potential into on-track success.

“He and Aiden should make an exciting pair to keep an eye on this year.”