The British Touring Car Championship will continue to be operated and run by TOCA until at least the end of the 2026 season after signing a contract extension with UK governing body Motorsport UK.

Motorsport UK had previously appointed BARC (TOCA) Limited as the organiser and promoter of Britain’s premier race series for five years from 2017, with the option to extend for a further five years from 2022.

With the championship continuing to reach new heights, TOCA has extended the agreement early in order to provide for the organisation to enter into major obligations beyond 2021.

BTCC Chief Executive, Alan Gow, said: “It’s important for the long-term stability of the BTCC for us to be able to confirm that we will continue to operate this great Championship until at least the end of 2026.

“This enables us to now embark on firm planning and making those extended commitments – including the introduction of hybrid energy – that are vital to ensure the continued growth of this fantastic championship.”

David Richards CBE, Chairman of Motorsport UK, added: “The British Touring Car Championship is one of the best-loved and most successful Championships in the world, let alone the UK, with packed grids, high profile manufacturer support, live television coverage and crowds of up to 40,000 attending every event.

“TOCA has done an exceptional job in organising and promoting the Championship, which continues to deliver exceptional, action-packed racing at circuits throughout the UK. Motorsport UK is delighted to be extending its agreement with them until at least 2026.”