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Legends Cars Championship set to go green with SulNOx

The Legends Cars National Championship with MRF Tyres will embrace a greener and more progressive future for 2022 and beyond as it partners with Decarbonisation specialists SulNOx Group Plc.

SulNOx, which is making its first foray into motorsport through the link-up with the Legends, has a mission to provide immediate and tangible steps towards carbon neutrality for hydrocarbon fuel. Whilst all cars will use SulNOx fuel conditioner, series stalwart Rickie Leggatt will pilot a SulNOx liveried car during the coming season.

London-based SulNOx is a greentech company specialising in providing responsible solutions towards the decarbonisation of traditional fuels, with patented additives reducing the production of environmentally unfriendly emissions and, at the same time, leading to significant cost savings.

Created from natural, biodegradable ingredients, SulNOx additives emulsify water and increase lubricity and oxygen, therefore making fuel burn cleanly and more efficiently. In essence, using SulNOx means a more complete burn of the fuel, converting current waste particulate matter into useful energy while lowering emissions.

“Environmental concerns have never been greater or more in the spotlight, so this agreement with SulNOx is an important step forward for the Legends Cars National Championship as we look to achieve a greener and more sustainable future”, said Championship Owner Phil Cooper. “The SulNOx products are very impressive and the business is at the forefront of green technologies.

“We’re delighted to welcome SulNOx to the Legends Cars National Championship and very much looking forward to working with the company. This is the right time for us to embrace and to also try and lead moves to a cleaner, greener future while ensuring the Legends continue to deliver the same incredible racing.”

On behalf of SulNOx, Dr Dan Clarke added: “We are extremely happy to partner with the Legends Cars National Championship to help make their series of motorsport more environmentally friendly. SulNOx Group Plc are committed to the decarbonisation of fossil fuels and this is a big statement that motorsport is equally committed to a more sustainable, greener future.”

The 2022 Legends Cars National Championship with MRF Tyres campaign is scheduled to begin at Oulton Park on April 2nd.

BARC to install light panels at Croft and Thruxton as part of Motorsport UK rollout

The British Automobile Racing Club will install FIA High-Tech Light Panels at both Croft and Thruxton circuits this year after the confirmation of an agreement between Motorsport UK, the British Motor Sport Training Trust (BMSTT) and UK circuit owners.

Thanks to this safety initiative, all UK race circuits that have FIA International Grade 3 status and above will have the panels, from leading motorsport safety solutions provider EM Motorsport, installed as soon as possible.

Competitors and marshals will be able to participate in events safe in the knowledge that the most up to date and internationally recognised technology will be fully visible, regardless of weather conditions, to augment the traditional flag signals that marshals use to relay critical safety messages to competitors.

Ben Taylor, BARC Chief Executive, said: “The increasing use of light panels has been considered by circuits for a number of years, but this represents perhaps the single biggest step forward in circuit safety for decades.

“It is a very sensible and welcome move from the governing body and BMSTT to support the venues to prevent a VHS/BetaMax-type situation with circuits having different systems. The benefits to the sport from a single system are likely to be felt in the coming years, as complementary solutions are developed that will be able to integrate with the technology at all circuits.”

Hugh Chambers, CEO of Motorsport UK, added: “Providing a safe environment for our sport to thrive is at the heart of Motorsport UK. It is essential we provide safety for competitors and volunteers alike who deliver the sport every weekend throughout the UK.

“The rollout of FIA High-Tech Light Panels represents a significant step forward in modernising UK race circuits by adopting the latest and most advanced technology.

“Motorsport UK is committed to improving safety and we thank BARC, MSV, Knockhill Racing Circuit, the British Motor Sports Training Trust and EM Motorsport for their engagement and commitment.”

Rod Parkin, Chair of the BSMTT, commented: “The British Motor Sports Training Trust (BMSTT) was formed as an UK Registered Charity in 1977 with the aim of supporting the training of volunteer motorsport officials and further enhancing medical and safety aspects of our sport.

“Since that time the Trust has regularly committed significant funds annually towards such initiatives. This new partnership support for the funding of light panels provides an ideal opportunity for the Trust to continue delivering its objectives in respect of both marshals and race circuit safety, promote our activities and raise awareness of the Trust.”

After the installation at these initial venues, it is intended, where practical, to extend the project so that all 17 Motorsport UK licenced race circuits will benefit from the increased safety the FIA High-Tech Light Panels provide.

Alan Gow reappointed President of the FIA Touring Car Commission

The FIA has confirmed that Alan Gow has been reappointed as President of FIA Touring Car Commission.

The extension for 2022 and 2023 means that Gow will start his 13th year in this position, having taken on the role from Jonathan Ashman back in 2010.

Alongside this role, Gow will continue in his position as Chief Executive of the British Touring Car Championship, as well as a member of the FIA World Endurance Commission.

Goodwood announces 2022 Festival of Speed theme

This year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed presented by Mastercard will celebrate ‘The innovators – masterminds of motorsport’.

Scheduled to take place between June 23-26, FOS will be dedicated to innovation in motoring and motorsport, including the drivers who pushed the sport to the next level and engineers who stretched the rules to breaking point in the name of progress.

A number of iconic and innovative machines will also line up to take on the famous Hill during Sunday’s Shootout as well.

After proving to be a smash-hit last year, the Electric Avenue will return to showcase the latest electric vehicles available and help people understand how they can best make the transition into a zero-carbon future.

The Future Lab will also be open to visitors throughout the four-day event with the best in innovative future mobility, robotics, aeronautics, space travel and artificial intelligence all set to be on display.

“This year’s Festival theme – ‘The Innovators – Masterminds of Motorsport’ – allows us to celebrate some of the greatest achievements in history, while also highlighting the event’s evolving focus on future technology,” said the Duke of Richmond.

“Just as race-inspired innovations such as four-valve engines, monocoque chassis and turbocharging have shaped the past and present of the cars we drive in the real world, so electrification, autonomy and other new technologies – the development of which is accelerated by the white heat of competition – will have a profound effect on the future of personal mobility.

“The Festival of Speed is the only place in the world to bring all these stories together in one place, celebrating the past, present and future in a uniquely immersive, dynamic way.”

New-for-2022 British F4 car hits the track for the first time

Preparations for the upcoming ROKiT F4 British Championship certified by FIA season have continued to ramp up with Virtuosi Racing becoming the first team to hit the track in the UK with the new-for-2022 second-generation car.

Completing a full day’s running at Brands Hatch on Wednesday (January 26), the Norfolk-based team put the new Tatuus T-421, it’s new Abarth powertrain and the Pirelli control tyres it runs on through its paces around the Indy circuit.

Behind the wheel was the team’s first signing for the 2022 season, Edward Pearson, and he wasted no time in getting up to speed.

“It’s fantastic to be able to get my first laps in the car ticked off. Today was all about bedding everything in, checking the car over and getting myself up to speed as a driver,” said the 15-year-old single-seater graduate.

“We started off cautiously and then gradually built it up and by the end of the day, we were posting good lap times. It’s my first test in the car and with the team, so very much just a case of establishing the foundations for the winter ahead.

“The car itself is a lot of fun to drive, and obviously quite different to what I’m used to racing in Ginetta Juniors. I’m looking forward to the next opportunity to get back behind the wheel already.”

Virtuosi Team Manager Mark Salmon was also left satisfied with the maiden running of the new car, heaping plenty of praise onto it.

“For the first test, we have to be very happy with how today has gone. Our engineering team has plenty of data to go away and crunch some numbers, and for Edward, we’ve started to build up his mileage in the car before the season starts,” he explained.

“The car itself is fantastic for this level. Today was our first run out with it, and it’s gone flawlessly, which really gives us the confidence to start pushing the limits straight out of the box. I have a feeling the championship is going to have quite a few people talking this season.”

Hugh Chambers, CEO of Motorsport UK added: “It’s fantastic to see our teams begin their winter testing programmes, and I’m sure with a brand new car, engine package and tyre to get their heads around, things will be flat out between now and the start of the season.

“Both Edward and Virtuosi are very enthusiastic following the test, so it’s clear to see the new Tatuus T-421 has made quite an impression in such a short space of time. We wish all the teams the best with their pre-season preparations and look forward to the opening rounds at Donington Park in just twelve weeks’ time.”

John Hutchison appointed as BARC Event Manager

The British Automobile Racing Club is delighted to announce that it has appointed John Hutchison to the role of Event Manager.

Working in the Competitions Department under Sporting Manager Mark Turner and alongside fellow Event Manager David Wheadon, John will play a hands-on role in the organisation of the Club’s race meetings, as well as delivering great experiences for our members, including racers, marshals, officials and others.

Boasting a wealth of motorsport experience, John joins the BARC having previously worked at the Classic Sports Car Club, Aston Martin Owners Club and most recently, the MG Car Club.

John Hutchison, BARC Event Manager, said: “I’m delighted to be joining the BARC as its new Event Manager. The Club has a long and rich history so it is special to now be playing a role in the organisation as we move forward.

“Everyone has been welcoming already and it has been great to start working alongside Mark and David; preparations are well underway for the 2022 season.

“I’ve gained plenty of experience working for motorsport clubs down the years so I’m confident I can bring that knowledge to the BARC and help play a part in the continued growth of UK national racing.”

Those wishing to contact John can do so via email: jhutchison@barc.net

BARC kicks off 2022 with Officials Recruitment Drive

Are you a good communicator? Do you work effectively as a leader and/or member of a team? Do you possess great listening and management skills?

The BARC is currently recruiting for:

• Secretaries of the Meeting

• Clerks of the Course

• Event Stewards

• Race Phones/Radio Communications

• Chief Observers/Deputy Chief Observers

• Chief Incident Officers/Deputy Chief Incident Officers

• Chief Marshals/Deputy Chief Marshals

• Safety Car Observers

• Fire Car Crew

• Scrutineers

Do you have what it takes to fulfil any of these roles?

If yes, then please send a brief email to officials@barc.net using BARC Officials Recruitment Drive as the Subject Line, stating which of the roles you would like to be considered for and why.

The Club does not expect successful candidates to jump into these roles immediately – The relevant training and mentoring will be provided.

BARC HQ 2021 Christmas & New Year closing dates

The British Automobile Racing Club headquarters at Thruxton Circuit will be closed during the following dates over the Christmas and New Year periods.

From: Thursday 23rd December 2021 at 17:00

To: Tuesday 4th January 2022 at 09:00

We look forward to seeing as many of you as possible trackside throughout 2022; be it if you are officiating, marshalling, spectating or competing!

From everyone at the BARC and all of our venues around the country; we wish you a safe, Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year!

BARC Marshal Training dates locked in for 2022

The British Automobile Racing Club can confirm that it will run a total of four training days for marshals prior to the start of the 2022 motorsport season.

Croft, Pembrey and Thruxton will stage the training days, which take place across February and March.

Every event organised and run by the BARC needs marshals and all marshals, whatever they are doing, are contributing to the success and smooth running of the meeting.

With training provided to cover a wide range of topics such as fire safety to pit lane operation and teamwork; marshal training covers a wide variety of key attributes in preparing those that are heading trackside for the forthcoming season.

More information is to be confirmed in due course but for those interested in taking part in 2022 marshal training, please contact BARC Marshals Secretary Paula Brown via email at pbrown@barc.net.

2022 BARC MARSHAL TRAINING DATES

Saturday 12th February – Croft

Sunday 20th February – Pembrey

Saturday 12th March – Thruxton

Sunday 13th March – Thruxton

To find out more about marshalling with the BARC and how to get involved, click here.

Champions confirmed as 2021 BARC season draws to a close

With the curtain having fallen on another spectacular year of motorsport, the British Automobile Racing Club is delighted to confirm the list of 2021 title winners from its championships.

Congratulations to all of our winners!

CHAMPIONSHIP	CHAMPION
2CV Championship	Pete Sparrow
BARC Connaught Speed Championship	Taras Andrusin
Britcar Endurance Championship – Endurance	Will Powell & Dave Scaramanga
Britcar Endurance Championship – Trophy	Simon Baker, Kevin Clarke & Ollie Reuben
British Truck Racing Championship – Division 1	Ryan Smith
British Truck Racing Championship – Division 2	Craig Reid
Carbon8 Hyundai Coupe Cup	Alex Cursely
Caterham Graduates Championship – Sigma 135	James McCall
Caterham Graduates Championship – Sigma 150	Jamie Ellwood
Caterham Graduates Championship – Sigmax	Harry Senior
Classic Touring Car Racing Club – Pre ‘66	James Ibbotson
Classic Touring Car Racing Club – Pre ‘83	Stephen Primett
Classic Touring Car Racing Club – Pre ‘93	Ian Bower
Classic Touring Car Racing Club – Pre ‘03	Gary Prebble
Classic Touring Car Racing Club – Thunder	Jason Hughes
Classic Touring Car Racing Club – BOSS	Martin Reynolds
Classic Touring Car Racing Club – JEC	Michael Seabourne
CNC Heads Sports/Saloon Car Championship	Jamie Cryer
Ginetta G40 Cup	Marc Warren
Ginetta GT Academy	Toby Trice
Gurston Down Speed Hill Climb Championship	Tim Pitfield
Junior Saloon Car Championship	Charlie Hand
Kumho BMW Championship – Class A	Brad Sheehan
Kumho BMW Championship – Class B	Kevin Denwood
Kumho BMW Championship – Class C	Jeff Nixon
Kwik Fit British Touring Car Championship	Ashley Sutton
Lancaster Insurance MG Owners Club – Class A	David Amphlett
Lancaster Insurance MG Owners Club – Class B	Anthony Bate
Lancaster Insurance MG Owners Club – Class F	Mark Baker
Lancaster Insurance MG Owners Club – Class Z	Steve McDermid
Legends Cars National Championship	Miles Rudman
Max5 Racing Championship	Paul Roddison
Michelin Ginetta Junior Championship	Aston Millar
Mighty Minis Championship – Mighty Minis	Dan Heywood
Mighty Minis Championship – Super Minis	Ian Slark
Millers Oils Ginetta GT4 Supercup	Adam Smalley
Motorsport UK British Hillclimb Championship	Wallace Menzies
Pickup Truck Racing Championship	George Turiccki
Porsche Carrera Cup GB	Dan Cammish
Porsche Carrera Cup GB – Pro Am	Ryan Ratcliffe
Porsche Carrera Cup GB – Am	Justin Sherwood
Porsche Sprint Challenge GB	Theo Edgerton
Protyre Motorsport Ginetta GT5 Challenge	Josh Steed
Quaife MINI CHALLENGE	Dan Zelos

Ginetta stars in latest episode of BBC Top Gear

Ginetta took on a starring in the latest episode of the BBC’s leading motoring programme, Top Gear.

Broadcast on BBC One on Sunday 5th December, the fourth episode of Series 31 saw presenter Freddie Flintoff hone his skills as a racing driver as part of Ginetta’s renowned driver development programme.

Ginetta were chosen to feature on the global hit show due to the Yorkshire manufacturer’s distinguished reputation for developing talented racing drivers, and how its unrivalled motorsport ladder provides accessible motorsport for drivers of all ages and experience.

Flintoff undertook bespoke simulator training at Ginetta’s in-house facility SimTrack Driver Performance Centre, before enjoying two days of on-track testing at Blyton Park in Lincolnshire with expert tuition from Ginetta factory driver Mike Simpson.

The England international cricketer turned television presenter then got to grips with 270bhp Ginetta G56 GTA, which has proven to be a smash-hit in the new-for-2021 Ginetta GT Academy.

Flintoff’s learning curve culminated in his first ever competitive race in the GT Cup at Snetterton as he piloted a Ginetta G55 GT4 alongside fellow presenter Chris Harris.

Mike Simon, Ginetta Factory Driver, said: “At Ginetta, we pride ourselves in being able to take people that have never been in a race car before and develop them into successful racing drivers, so it’s fantastic to be able to highlight what we do to a global audience on Top Gear.

“It was a great experience working with Freddie [Flintoff]. He was completely new to motorsport, but came in with the levels of focus, dedication and determination to improve that you would expect from someone who was a professional sportsman and one of the best in his discipline.

“We gave Freddie an intensive crash course in what it takes to be a racing driver, from improving his lap times, to developing his race craft and how to set up the car. The Ginetta G56 GTA was the perfect learning car for Freddie and he made huge improvements during our time at Blyton Park.

“That set him up for the transition to the GT4 car at Snetterton and he made more great progress across the race event. We all thoroughly enjoyed working with Freddie, Chris and the team at Top Gear, and hope everyone enjoys watching the episode.”

In addition to featuring in the latest episode of the series, Ginetta has also been announced as a winner of a coveted Top Gear Car of the Year Award. After his racing experience, Flintoff chose the Ginetta G56 GTA as his Car of the Year.

New era beckons for ROKiT F4 British Championship certified by FIA in 2022

The ROKiT F4 British Championship certified by FIA is poised to enter a new era next year, with 2022 marking a dramatic shift for the internationally renowned entry-level category for the stars of tomorrow.

Now organised by Motorsport UK, the governing body and membership organisation for UK motorsport, Britain’s FIA Formula 4 series will reach new heights as it ushers in a wave of new changes.

One major change will see adoption of the hugely successful Tatuus-Abarth chassis and engine combination which features a number of notable safety advancements, including the Halo cockpit protection device and strengthened side anti-intrusion panels. Further safety features such as TOCA’s on-board signalling systems will also be included on the 2022 car as well.

The introduction of Pirelli as the category’s tyre supplier will bring the championship in line with its contemporaries around Europe, as well as the rest of the FIA Single-Seater Pathway.

In addition to the 12 FIA Super License points that are up for grabs, the 2022 Champion will receive a funded test in a Formula Regional European Championship by Alpine challenger courtesy of Pirelli.

They will also receive a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to go behind the scenes at a Formula 1 Grand Prix with McLaren, giving them an in-depth insight into life at the sport’s top table.

British F4 has also named ROKiT as its new title sponsor for the forthcoming campaign and they have announced a brand-new Racing Star programm e to support two future talents.

The scheme will select 32 participants aged either 14 or 15 years old through the sport’s ever-growing eSports scene, with a further shootout held on state-of-the-art simulators to determine which two drivers – one boy and one girl – will be awarded a fully-funded seat in British F4 for the 2023 season with the FIA Racing Star team, underpinned by Hitech GP.

Hugh Chambers, CEO of Motorsport UK, said: “This is a really significant moment as the ROKiT F4 British Championship certified by FIA continues to build towards what will be a ground-breaking year in 2022.

“It’s an excellent opportunity to have everybody together to get an exclusive first-look at the new car in the UK, and also to unveil some of the exciting commercial ties we’ve forged to help enrich the experience for drivers competing in the championship.

“As the entry-level step on the single-seater ladder, it’s absolutely crucial we put together a platform that gives competitors the best opportunity to make meaningful progress through the ranks. Many of these drivers will be aiming for Formula 1, so giving them a championship that allows them to start gathering relevant experience from their first laps in the car is a key element of what we’re building.

“Our vision has always been to grow and develop the series into a global leader, and to kick things off with partnerships alongside the likes of ROKiT, McLaren and Pirelli really gives us a solid grounding on which to build and unveil further incentives in the near future. It also highlights how seriously British F4 is regarded at the highest echelons of the sport.

“We understand that teams are already attracting heavy interest for seats, which is extremely encouraging, and all the signs at this stage points towards a healthy grid to kick off the championship’s new era in 2022.”