Chevrolet to quit WTCC

[MrMetro]

From Chevrolet announces it will leave the WTCC at the end of the 2012 season - WTCC news - AUTOSPORT.com

Chevrolet will leave the World Touring Car Championship at the end of the 2012 season, the manufacturer said on Wednesday.Chevrolet said the decision comes after a strategic review of its motorsport and marketing programmes.
The American car maker joined the WTCC in 2005, and its eight-year programme has resulted in two drivers' and constructors' championships in 2010 and 2011, including 59 race wins.

Frenchman Yvan Muller is currently leading the standings this season.
Chevrolet said it announced its decision mid-season in order to allow its race drivers and race partner RML to plan for the future.
Chevrolet is the only full manufacturer entry in this year's WTCC.

"We are extremely proud of the two double world titles we have won in the series and of the 59 victories over the last eight years," said Susan Docherty, President and Managing Director of Chevrolet Europe.
"The WTCC has been a powerful brand platform and showcase for Chevrolet in Europe and markets throughout the world. Chevrolet and RML now aim to go out on a high, by securing our third world title together."
Eric Neve, Chevrolet Motorsport Manager added: "Naturally, making this announcement comes with very mixed emotions. This has been an amazing journey from our first season through to the double championship wins with the Cruze.
"We are extremely proud of the success we have achieved, including giving GM its first FIA World Champion titles, and would like to thank and pay tribute to the WTCC, RML, our drivers, partners and fans. We are now all focused on the remainder of season and bringing home the third double championship titles for Chevrolet."

[Allyc85]

Shame really, just as Honda were about to join in 2013. Maybe they are scared of the competition?

[djparky]

they've been racing themeslves for the last 3 years so not a huge suprise really

[GravettFan99]

That's a big loss, the team was very professional and contributed heavily to the series, imo. I guess RML and it's drivers may head to the Superstars series, which would probably boost the popularity of the series.

[Eurotech]

I personally hope to see RML return to the BTCC but dunno if thats just wishful thinking....

[GravettFan99]

I personally hope to see RML return to the BTCC but dunno if thats just wishful thinking....

It could be possible, I think thata the team would sign on Rob and Jason Plato if they were to re-enter. However, he may continue on with MG... yeah wishful thinking...

[Humber]

Does RML have the right stuff to do the DTM?

[wedge]

I personally hope to see RML return to the BTCC but dunno if thats just wishful thinking....

Money, sponsorship

[F1boat]

Shame really, just as Honda were about to join in 2013. Maybe they are scared of the competition?

And that's so not cool. I was hoping for a championship for privateers and not another manufacturer dominating.