BTCC 2008 Confirmed Thread

[Alfa Fan]

Confirmed entries according only to press releases on the official btcc.net website.

Fabrizio Giovanardi Triple Eight Vauxhall Vectra
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=750
Matt Neal Triple Eight Vauxhall Vectra
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=778
Jason Plato Northern South SEAT Leon
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=815
Darren Turner Northern South SEAT Leon
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=815
Gordon Shedden Team Dynamics Honda Civic
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=802
Tom Chilton Team Dynamics Honda Civic
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=802
Colin Turkington West Surrey Racing BMW 320SI E90
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=817
TBA West Surrey Racing BMW 320SI E90
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=817
Mike Jordan Team Eurotech Honda Integra
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=789
Andy Jordan Team Eurotech Honda Integra
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=789
Harry Vaulkhard Robertshaw Racing Chevrolet Lacetti
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=813
TBA Robertshaw Racing Chevrolet Lacetti
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=813
Alan Taylor Robertshaw Racing Honda Integra
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=813
Michael Doyle Robertshaw Racing Honda Civic Type-R
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=813
Matt Jackson Jackson Motorsport BMW 320SI E90
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=821
TBA Motorbase Performance BMW 320SI E90
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=820
TBA Motorbase Performance BMW 320SI E90
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=820

[peewhee]

Yes we know all those!

What about the drivers that have said on these forums that they are racing in 2008? Don't you believe them?

[tisme]

AND how many of those you have listed have actually REGISTERED for the championship?

Not all!

[VkmSpouge]

AND how many of those you have listed have actually REGISTERED for the championship?

Not all!

How is he or anyone not involved with the running of the championship supposed to know who has registered or not? That list is a perfectly valid way of seeing who is confirmed until mid-March when the official entry list gets released.

Oh Alfa Fan, you missed out Erkut Kizilimak:
http://www.btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=764&month=0&year=2008&form=&searchterm=

[SEATFreak]

How is he or anyone not involved with the running of the championship supposed to know who has registered or not? That list is a perfectly valid way of seeing who is confirmed until mid-March when the official entry list gets released.

Exactly. That is what I have been saying for so long about so many other things. Only I was never allowed to voice my feelings in the way you have.

So far we have not actually discussed the confirmed.


Oh Alfa Fan, you missed out Erkut Kizilimak:
http://www.btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=764&month=0&year=2008&form=&searchterm=

The old codger must be going senile. He also missed out Rick Kerry in a developed 120d and John George.

http://www.btcc.net/forum/showthread.php?t=5445

[Alfa Fan]

"Confirmed entries according only to press releases on the official btcc.net website."

To date, Erkut Kizilirmak, John George and Rick Kerry have yet to publically announce their entries, thus why they have been omitted from the list.

Kizilirmak has a stated intention to return as part of a two-car team, but as yet has not confirmed this.

[btcc-thunder]

i wouldnt say robertshaw are definate yet either, their press release is more along the lines of an intention to run rather than definitley confirmed,
also turkington is mentioned in the wsr press release only in reference to his 07 campaign, not a confirmation of him being a driver in 08 for wsr

[Les]

no-one is definite until the entry money has been paid over, the forms signed and then they might still not turn up at Brands Hatch for the first race.

[dwracing23]

Hi guys and girls,

I know your not meant to post links but I think that people will find this very interesting. It seems Robertshaw racing wont be entering the "Honda Team" in the BTCC. Have a look at the link.

http://www.parcferme.com/content/view/4507/2/

Looking forward to a very healthy grid in 2008! 32 cars will be excellent! A few more teams entering that havent come out yet.

Cheers!

[VkmSpouge]

That should make things easier for Robertshaw Racing only having to run two instead three different cars.
Wish Michael Doyle the best of luck for this year. Since In-tune Racing are based in Glasgow, which was the last team to enter the BTCC that was based in Scotland?

[peewhee]

Hi guys and girls,

I know your not meant to post links but I think that people will find this very interesting. It seems Robertshaw racing wont be entering the "Honda Team" in the BTCC. Have a look at the link.

http://www.parcferme.com/content/view/4507/2/

Looking forward to a very healthy grid in 2008! 32 cars will be excellent! A few more teams entering that havent come out yet.

Cheers!
Dan, It doesn't count unless it's been on the official BTCC.net site!

According to Alfa Fan!

[Alfa Fan]

Confirmed entries according only to press releases on the official btcc.net website.

Fabrizio Giovanardi Triple Eight Vauxhall Vectra
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=750
Matt Neal Triple Eight Vauxhall Vectra
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=778
Jason Plato Northern South SEAT Leon
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=815
Darren Turner Northern South SEAT Leon
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=815
Gordon Shedden Team Dynamics Honda Civic
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=802
Tom Chilton Team Dynamics Honda Civic
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=802
Colin Turkington West Surrey Racing BMW 320SI E90
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=817
TBA West Surrey Racing BMW 320SI E90
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=817
Mike Jordan Team Eurotech Honda Integra
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=789
Andy Jordan Team Eurotech Honda Integra
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=789
Harry Vaulkhard Robertshaw Racing Chevrolet Lacetti
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=813
TBA Robertshaw Racing Chevrolet Lacetti
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=813
Alan Taylor Robertshaw Racing Honda Integra
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=813
Michael Doyle In-Tune Racing Honda Civic Type-R
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=813
Matt Jackson Jackson Motorsport BMW 320SI E90
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=821
TBA Motorbase Performance BMW 320SI E90
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=820
TBA Motorbase Performance BMW 320SI E90
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=820

Obviously on something like a teamname change it doesn't really matter if it's been announced on the BTCC site.

[SEATFreak]

http://www.touringcartimes.com/news.php?id=1749

What do you guys make of this? It seems from Craner Curves, a forum member on the sites forum, In-Tune Racing had bought the car and place it with Robertshaw to help run but have now it seems decided to run it by themselves.

[CroftPilgrim]

AND how many of those you have listed have actually REGISTERED for the championship?


The answer is none, since no one registers until media day...

[Alfa Fan]

Nope, registrations opened January 1.

[Alfa Fan]

Confirmed entries according only to press releases on the official btcc.net website. Fabrizio Giovanardi Triple Eight Vauxhall Vectra http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=750 Matt Neal Triple Eight Vauxhall Vectra http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=778 Jason Plato Northern South SEAT Leon http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=815 Darren Turner Northern South SEAT Leon http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=815 Gordon Shedden Team Dynamics Honda Civic http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=802 Tom Chilton Team Dynamics Honda Civic http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=802 Colin Turkington West Surrey Racing BMW 320SI E90 http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=817 TBA West Surrey Racing BMW 320SI E90 http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=817 Mike Jordan Team Eurotech Honda Integra http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=789 Andy Jordan Team Eurotech Honda Integra http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=789 Harry Vaulkhard Robertshaw Racing Chevrolet Lacetti http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=813 TBA Robertshaw Racing Chevrolet Lacetti http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=813 Alan Taylor Robertshaw Racing Honda Integra http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=813 Michael Doyle In-Tune Racing Honda Civic Type-R http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=813 Matt Jackson Jackson Motorsport BMW 320SI E90 http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=821 TBA Motorbase Performance BMW 320SI E90 http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=820 TBA Motorbase Performance BMW 320SI E90 http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=820 Rick Kerry Team AFM and NJL Racing BMW 120d http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=829 Nick Leason Team AFM and NJL Racing BMW 120d http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=829

[Alfa Fan]

Confirmed entries according only to press releases on the official btcc.net website.

Fabrizio Giovanardi Triple Eight Vauxhall Vectra
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=750
Matt Neal Triple Eight Vauxhall Vectra
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=778
Jason Plato Northern South SEAT Leon
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=815
Darren Turner Northern South SEAT Leon
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=815
Gordon Shedden Team Dynamics Honda Civic
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=802
Tom Chilton Team Dynamics Honda Civic
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=802
Colin Turkington West Surrey Racing BMW 320SI E90
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=817
TBA West Surrey Racing BMW 320SI E90
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=817
Mike Jordan Team Eurotech Honda Integra
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=789
Andy Jordan Team Eurotech Honda Integra
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=789
Harry Vaulkhard Robertshaw Racing Chevrolet Lacetti
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=813
TBA Robertshaw Racing Chevrolet Lacetti
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=813
Alan Taylor Robertshaw Racing Honda Integra
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=813
Michael Doyle In-Tune Racing Honda Civic Type-R
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=813
Matt Jackson Jackson Motorsport BMW 320SI E90
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=821
TBA Motorbase Performance BMW 320SI E90
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=820
TBA Motorbase Performance BMW 320SI E90
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=820
Rick Kerry Team AFM with NJL Racing BMW 120d
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=829
Nick Leason Team AFM Racing with NJL Racing BMW 120d
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=829

Obviously on something like a teamname change it doesn't really matter if it's been announced on the BTCC site.

[RED VXR]

Good to see Nick Leason is going to be back. Good luck to him, Rick Kerry and all at AFM.

[Northern Monkey]

Kerry and Leason aren't confirmed as yet - planning to and actually managing to aren't the same thing but touch wood their plans will come off.

[VkmSpouge]

I wish Nick Leason well for this year. I hope the BMW 120d goes quicker as well.

[Nick Leason]

I would just like to say a big thankyou to those who have supported myself but also Rick last season. Sometimes I don't think people realise how much hard work and effort is put in to acheive what we do. I had an extremeley hard year last season which was so frustrating and got me down. But hope to show that we both can put in a good performance in 2008 and pay back all your loyalty you have shown both of us...Unfortunatley we both do require sponsorship to acheive what we are doing and both work extremeley hard to try and get it and it is not always easy but we try our best with what we have got.

Thanks again.
Nick

[VkmSpouge]

Hi Nick, how close to completion is the second car?

[Nick Leason]

At present we are working extremley hard with the developement of the engine and the use of a sequential gearbox as we know we need to find more power which we plan to acheive with some great support behind us with the specialist companies we have on board. Then our plan is to transfer this across to both cars for 2008. But we hope to at least start testing with one car at the end of the month to acheive as much track time as we can possible. Myself and Rick will be at the Autosport Show on Thursday so do come and say hello...
Nick

[Andy Neate]

Hi Nick, Happy new year.... Good news mate! Im sure you'll get better reliability out of the Beemer!

[Marc W]

At present we are working extremley hard with the developement of the engine and the use of a sequential gearbox as we know we need to find more power which we plan to acheive with some great support behind us with the specialist companies we have on board. Then our plan is to transfer this across to both cars for 2008. But we hope to at least start testing with one car at the end of the month to acheive as much track time as we can possible. Myself and Rick will be at the Autosport Show on Thursday so do come and say hello...
Nick

Hope things go much better for both of you this season. I'd come and say hello, but I won't be there until Friday.

[tdb]

Hi Nick, Happy new year.... Good news mate! Im sure you'll get better reliability out of the Beemer!

And which BMW are YOU hoping to get reliability from this year Mr Neate?

[Red200]

Hi Nick

Good news, I hope you and Rick get your program backed and wish you both a good season.

Unfortunately I will be attending show on Friday, it would have good to get together for a coffe and chat

Again best wishes

Colin

[tin-top fan]

And which BMW are YOU hoping to get reliability from this year Mr Neate?

Is this some strange way of telling us that Andy is going to be driving one of the 3-series beemers this season, possibly a motorbase one?
Either that or I may just be wishful thinking :D


EDIT: I've just looked on Andy's website and it shows a picture from Brands (possibly 1st race of last season?) and coming soon........ http://www.andyneate.co.uk/ I wonder if i've just stumbled across some news :confused:

[peewhee]

And you think your the first to notice that?

[SEATFreak]

I would just like to say a big thankyou to those who have supported myself but also Rick last season.

I may not have actually supported you and BTC Racing last season but I always look out for the smaller teams like BTC Racing and want them to do well. I don't like to see people doing badly. I begin to feel for them.

So this season will be no different for me regarding yourself, Rick and both teams (Team AFM and NJL).

I will be pulling for you and hope you have more success in the BMW 120d than the Lexus IS200 and I for one think you will. I for one think you will collect points consistently if your hard work pays off.

[VkmSpouge]

And you think your the first to notice that?

I think he is the first to post about it here.

[tin-top fan]

And you think your the first to notice that?

I seem to be the first to post about it.... not jelous are we :p :

[peewhee]

I seem to be the first to post about it.... not jelous are we :p :

No.. Just that i saw it two weeks ago! ;)

But, Do you know where he is going?

[Nick Leason]

Thanks again for every ones support. It is hard when you have a restricted budget and dependable on just sponsors money as obviously the budget you get is what you only can spend. Everyone has been really supportive considering the very frustrating year I had last season.

[fabricator/61]

I think this site must be in a time trap, because on the front page of last weeks motorsport news Alan Gow was talking off a record entry for the 50th Anniversary season. He said it would be restricted to 32 cars which is the max on the smaller circuits. most big teams were fielding 3 cars except SEAT.

[Alfa Fan]

This thread is for confirmed entries only! There may be 40+ potential entrys in the works, but until they're formally announced, they won't appear in this thread!

[tisme]

I wonder if Jackson will announce running two cars at the Autosport show?

With Nick and Rick also running BMW's. there should be quite a lot out this year!

Good luck Nick

[DazzlaF1]

I wonder if Jackson will announce running two cars at the Autosport show?

With Nick and Rick also running BMW's. there should be quite a lot out this year!

Good luck Nick

I dont know if they have the resources to expand to a 2 car team but it would be great if they did

[SEATFreak]

Seatcupra.net's ZBOYD reports on the sites forum that SEATSport UK have confirmed they are to run the TDi's this coming season.

http://www.seatcupra.net/forums/showthread.php?p=1699460#post1699460

Unfortunately tracking down any article that backs up this confirmation is proving very hard but I trust ZBOYD 100%.

[Alfa Fan]

http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/64601

That wasn't hard.

[SEATFreak]

Why is it you seem so cocky and smug?

[SEATFreak]

Any news on the Motorbase drivers yet?

[DazzlaF1]

OK, heres how i see the confirmed lot so far

VAUXHALL: Giovanardi, Neal, Onslow-Cole
SEAT: Plato, Turner
DYNAMICS: Shedden, Chilton
WEST SURREY: Turkington, ???
EUROTECH: M.Jordan, A.Jordan
ROBERTSHAW: Vaulkhard, Taylor, ???
AFM: Kerry, Leason
MOTORBASE: ???, ???
ARKAS: Kizilirmak, ???
JACKSONS: Jackson
TH: George
IN-LINE: Doyle

Sorry if i've missed any confirmed drivers out

[SEATFreak]

OK, heres how i see the confirmed lot so far

VAUXHALL: Giovanardi, Neal, Onslow-Cole
SEAT: Plato, Turner
DYNAMICS: Shedden, Chilton
WEST SURREY: Turkington, ???
EUROTECH: M.Jordan, A.Jordan
ROBERTSHAW: Vaulkhard, Taylor, ???
AFM: Kerry, Leason
MOTORBASE: ???, ???
ARKAS: Kizilirmak, ???
JACKSONS: Jackson
TH: George
IN-LINE: Doyle

Sorry if i've missed any confirmed drivers out

Not to my knowledge you haven't.

Though a) I see on Wikipedia Jason Hughes has been confirmed as running for Kartworld but switching to using an Integra. But until I hear it from more reliable sources I won't back up that entry and b) I wasn't 100% sure if Erkut Kizilimark/Arkas Racing and John George/TH Motorsport were confirmed so you have more than I know.

[Alfa Fan]

Confirmed entries according only to press releases on the official btcc.net website.

Fabrizio Giovanardi Triple Eight Vauxhall Vectra
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=750
Matt Neal Triple Eight Vauxhall Vectra
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=778
Jason Plato Northern South SEAT Leon
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=815
Darren Turner Northern South SEAT Leon
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=815
Gordon Shedden Team Dynamics Honda Civic
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=802
Tom Chilton Team Dynamics Honda Civic
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=802
Colin Turkington West Surrey Racing BMW 320SI E90
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=817
TBA West Surrey Racing BMW 320SI E90
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=817
Mike Jordan Team Eurotech Honda Integra
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=789
Andy Jordan Team Eurotech Honda Integra
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=789
Harry Vaulkhard Robertshaw Racing Chevrolet Lacetti
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=813
TBA Robertshaw Racing Chevrolet Lacetti
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=813
Alan Taylor Robertshaw Racing Honda Integra
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=813
Michael Doyle In-Tune Racing Honda Civic Type-R
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=813
Matt Jackson Jackson Motorsport BMW 320SI E90
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=821
TBA Motorbase Performance BMW 320SI E90
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=820
TBA Motorbase Performance BMW 320SI E90
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=820
Rick Kerry Team AFM with NJL Racing BMW 120d
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=829
Nick Leason Team AFM Racing with NJL Racing BMW 120d
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=829
Chris Stockton BTC Racing Lexus IS200
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=840
TBA BTC Racing Lexus IS200
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=840

Updated list. 21 entries confirmed on btcc.net now, and John George & Erkut Kizilirmak's entires are just awaiting an official press release.

[VkmSpouge]

Nice to see Chris Stockton confirmed and that BTC Racing will continue using their Lexus cars. Hope they have better reliability than last year.

[SEATFreak]

Chris Stockton BTC Racing Lexus IS200
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=840
TBA BTC Racing Lexus IS200
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=840


Unless I have missed it mentioned elsewhere Chris will have a team-mate of some name for definite will he?

Theirs still a fair few drivers still from last season who haven't confirmed an entry with some team yet. Like A-Tech's drivers Richard Marsh and Dave Pinkney.

[Northern Monkey]

Marsh is going to British GT with A-Tech.

[Alfa Fan]

Unless I have missed it mentioned elsewhere Chris will have a team-mate of some name for definite will he?

Theirs still a fair few drivers still from last season who haven't confirmed an entry with some team yet. Like A-Tech's drivers Richard Marsh and Dave Pinkney.

http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=840

"In a short statement, the team has also announced it is in negotiations with a second driver to race alongside Stockton in 2008’s BTCC season."

[Red200]

Hi All,

We are working hard to get the cars ready for our second season in the BTCC, the talks with a driver to join Chris are going well and I will ensure you all are informed when we are in a position to confirm our plans.

Look forward to the season and the challenges it will present us, Don't forget to come along and say hello

Regards

Colin

[VkmSpouge]

You can add John George to your list now, Alfa Fan.
http://www.btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=841

[Alfa Fan]

Confirmed entries according only to press releases on the official btcc.net website.

Fabrizio Giovanardi Triple Eight Vauxhall Vectra
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=750
Matt Neal Triple Eight Vauxhall Vectra
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=778
Tom Onslow-Cole Triple Eight Vauxhall Vectra
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=836
Jason Plato Northern South SEAT Leon TDi
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=815
Darren Turner Northern South SEAT Leon TDi
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=815
Gordon Shedden Team Dynamics Honda Civic
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=802
Tom Chilton Team Dynamics Honda Civic
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=802
Colin Turkington West Surrey Racing BMW 320SI E90
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=817
TBA West Surrey Racing BMW 320SI E90
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=817
Mike Jordan Team Eurotech Honda Integra
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=789
Andy Jordan Team Eurotech Honda Integra
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=789
Harry Vaulkhard Robertshaw Racing Chevrolet Lacetti
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=813
TBA Robertshaw Racing Chevrolet Lacetti
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=813
Alan Taylor Robertshaw Racing Honda Integra
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=813
Michael Doyle In-Tune Racing Honda Civic Type-R
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=813
Matt Jackson Jackson Motorsport BMW 320SI E90
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=821
TBA Motorbase Performance BMW 320SI E90
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=820
TBA Motorbase Performance BMW 320SI E90
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=820
Rick Kerry Team AFM with NJL Racing BMW 120d
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=829
Nick Leason Team AFM Racing with NJL Racing BMW 120d
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=829
Chris Stockton BTC Racing Lexus IS200
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=840
TBA BTC Racing Lexus IS200
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=840
John George TH Motorsport Honda Integra
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=841

Updated list. 23 entries confirmed on btcc.net, Erkut Kizilirmak & Jason Hughes' entries still awaiting an official press release.

[Alfa Fan]

Confirmed entries according only to press releases on the official btcc.net website.

Fabrizio Giovanardi Triple Eight Vauxhall Vectra
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=750
Matt Neal Triple Eight Vauxhall Vectra
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=778
Tom Onslow-Cole Triple Eight Vauxhall Vectra
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=836
Jason Plato Northern South SEAT Leon TDi
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=815
Darren Turner Northern South SEAT Leon TDi
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=815
Gordon Shedden Team Dynamics Honda Civic
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=802
Tom Chilton Team Dynamics Honda Civic
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=802
Colin Turkington West Surrey Racing BMW 320SI E90
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=817
TBA West Surrey Racing BMW 320SI E90
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=817
Mike Jordan Team Eurotech Honda Integra
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=789
Andy Jordan Team Eurotech Honda Integra
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=789
Harry Vaulkhard Robertshaw Racing Chevrolet Lacetti
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=813
TBA Robertshaw Racing Chevrolet Lacetti
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=813
Alan Taylor Robertshaw Racing Honda Integra
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=813
Michael Doyle In-Tune Racing Honda Civic Type-R
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=813
Matt Jackson Jackson Motorsport BMW 320SI E90
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=821
TBA Motorbase Performance BMW 320SI E90
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=820
TBA Motorbase Performance BMW 320SI E90
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=820
Rick Kerry Team AFM with NJL Racing BMW 120d
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=829
Nick Leason Team AFM Racing with NJL Racing BMW 120d
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=829
Chris Stockton BTC Racing Lexus IS200
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=840
TBA BTC Racing Lexus IS200
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=840
John George TH Motorsport Honda Integra
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=841
Erkut Kizilirmak Arkas Racing Vauxhall Astra Sport Hatch
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=850
Martyn Bell Arkas Racing Vauxhall Astra Sport Hatch
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=850

Updated list. 25 entries confirmed on btcc.net, Jason Hughes' entry still awaiting an official press release.

[ed.peters]

Jason Hughes' entry still awaiting an official press release.

Still hasn't got his car yet!

[Alfa Fan]

Confirmed entries according only to press releases on the official btcc.net website.

Fabrizio Giovanardi Triple Eight Vauxhall Vectra
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=750
Matt Neal Triple Eight Vauxhall Vectra
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=778
Tom Onslow-Cole Triple Eight Vauxhall Vectra
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=836
Jason Plato Northern South SEAT Leon TDi
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=815
Darren Turner Northern South SEAT Leon TDi
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=815
Gordon Shedden Team Dynamics Honda Civic
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=802
Tom Chilton Team Dynamics Honda Civic
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=802
Colin Turkington West Surrey Racing BMW 320SI E90
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=817
TBA West Surrey Racing BMW 320SI E90
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=817
Mike Jordan Team Eurotech Honda Integra
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=789
Andy Jordan Team Eurotech Honda Integra
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=789
Harry Vaulkhard Robertshaw Racing Chevrolet Lacetti
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=813
TBA Robertshaw Racing Chevrolet Lacetti
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=813
Alan Taylor Robertshaw Racing Honda Integra
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=813
Michael Doyle In-Tune Racing Honda Civic Type-R
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=813
Matt Jackson Jackson Motorsport BMW 320SI E90
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=821
TBA Motorbase Performance BMW 320SI E90
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=820
TBA Motorbase Performance BMW 320SI E90
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=820
Rick Kerry Team AFM with NJL Racing BMW 120d
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=829
Nick Leason Team AFM Racing with NJL Racing BMW 120d
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=829
Chris Stockton BTC Racing Lexus IS200
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=840
Stuart Oliver BTC Racing Lexus IS200
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=852 (http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=840)
John George TH Motorsport Honda Integra
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=841
Erkut Kizilirmak Arkas Racing Vauxhall Astra Sport Hatch
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=850
Martyn Bell Arkas Racing Vauxhall Astra Sport Hatch
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=850

Updated list. 25 entries confirmed on btcc.net, Jason Hughes' entry still awaiting an official press release.

[DazzlaF1]

25 so far, and still media day to come, looking great

[SEATFreak]

Jason Hughes' entries still awaiting an official press release.

According to the tabulated rumours and speculation list on Wikipedia the source for the "confirmation" of Jason's entry again with Kartworld but switching to an Integra DC05 is a Motorsport News article back in January but I went to the Motorsport News website and I cannot find it anywhere.

[Marc W]

It was in Motorsport news itself rather than the website which is rarely updated these days.

[BeeJ_UK]

I noticed in the back of this weeks Autosport that Jason Hughes is selling arrive and drive in the ZS

[BTCC2]

For the BTCC?

[Cansiz79]

Yes

[Cansiz79]

And because Marsh is driving in BGT, it doesnt mean he cant do BTCC

[ed.peters]

And because Marsh is driving in BGT, it doesnt mean he cant do BTCC
Richard Marsh will NOT be driving in the 2008 BTCC!

It is looking uncertain that A-Tech will be out at all! (in the BTCC)

[peewhee]

According to the tabulated rumours and speculation list on Wikipedia the source for the "confirmation" of Jason's entry again with Kartworld but switching to an Integra DC05 is a Motorsport News article back in January but I went to the Motorsport News website and I cannot find it anywhere.
And I see that they have Andy Neate driving a BMW 320si???

Where did that come from?

[LiamM]

And I see that they have Andy Neate driving a BMW 320si???

Where did that come from?

It was incinuated on here by tdb wasn't it?

Could be Martyn Bells 320i giving the mysterious 6th race wining BMW?

Otherwise im sure its just someones imagination changing things on Wikipedia

[peewhee]

It was incinuated on here by tdb wasn't it?

Could be Martyn Bells 320i giving the mysterious 6th race wining BMW?

Otherwise im sure its just someones imagination changing things on Wikipedia

Martyn's BMW is a 320is! The 320si is a new E90 model!

Can't find tdb's mention of it?

As you say, it could be someone changing things on Wikipedia.. let's face it, if someone wanted to play around, why not pick on a driver that now one really notices????

[Alfa Fan]

Having said that the last unexplained Wikipedia edit turned out to be spot on...

[Allyc85]

:) Cant we keep the rumours to the rumour thread?

[Iain]

Martyn's BMW is a 320is!

320i actually. ;)

[LiamM]

Can't find tdb's mention of it?


http://btccpages.motorsportforum.com/forums/showthread.php?p=405069&highlight=Andy+Neate#post405069

[peewhee]

Not exactly incinuating anything there as I can see! Just a simple question..

http://btccpages.motorsportforum.com/forums/showpost.php?p=405069&postcount=25

[thompp]

And I see that they have Andy Neate driving a BMW 320si???

Where did that come from?
Nothing on Andy's web site yet.

[dwracing23]

I think everyone will find this link very, very interesting!

http://www.robertshawracing.com/racing.php

Have a look at the second driver number #26.

I personally didn’t see this happening and would have thought he would have stayed in the same team as last season.

I wonder if it will be in motorsport news tomorrow or autosport on Thursday.

[VX_Rules]

Im not too surprised by this. Matt deserved a good drive, and hopefully he can do the business in the "Reasonably Priced Car".

Good luck to him.

[VkmSpouge]

Now that is interesting, Matt Allison in a Chevy. Hope he does well. Hope the official announcement is soon.

[Les]

I would think that IS the official announcement

[VkmSpouge]

I would think that IS the official announcement

You know what, you're right :D . Silly me.

[Northern Monkey]

http://www.crash.net/news_view.asp?id=160119&pid=0&cid=10&news=y

[Marc W]

Team RAC have announced Steven Jelley as their 2nd driver for 2008;

http://www.btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=856

[thompp]

Wow, two surprise announcements. Re Norwich local boy Matt Allison - Motorbase Performance still haven't announced their drivers yet, interesting who replaces him and who they get as their number 2 driver. Also interesting know why Allison wasn't retained as he had quite a good season but was plagued by bad luck.

Stephen Jelley joining Team RAC - now that did come out of the blue! Quite a career change for him to switch to touring cars, especially at such a high level. Does this mean he's given up on his single seater career?

[ATF]

This year is shaping up to be fantastic - we could just do with a couple of top drivers in the Motorbase BMWs and we could have up to a dozen different winners...in theory!!

[Iain]

I knew the Jelley news would cause a big surprise!

Seems to be a decent driver from what I've seen, I remember watching him in Junior FFord in 2002. Switching to the BMW from a single seater won't be as difficult than if he was moving to a front wheel drive car.

[Robinho]

i think Jelley could be a great signing, you are no mug to have won multiple British F3 races (and race GP2) and with his experience he could be a great asset as long as he is able to adapt quicky to the tourers, although going straight to RWD will make it easier - he could well be one to watch next season if not this

[CroftPilgrim]

I think there's some real quality drivers in the BTCC this year through and through. Lots of good cars too which means a very tight season I think!

[DazzlaF1]

Really surprised myself when i heard the news about Jelley joining WSR same goes for Allison in one of the Robertshaw Chevy's, i for one thought Collard would get one of the Chevy drives after testing one recently

CONFIRMED SO FAR

VAUXHALL: Giovanardi, Neal, Onslow-Cole
SEAT: Plato, Turner
DYNAMICS: Shedden, Chilton
WEST SURREY: Turkington, Jelley
ROBERTSHAW: Vaulkhard, Allison, Taylor
EUROTECH: M.Jordan, A.Jordan
ARKAS: Kizilirmak, Bell
BTC: Stockton, Oliver
AFM RACING: Kerry, Leason
MOTORBASE: ?,?
JACKSONS: Jackson
TH: George
IN-LINE: Doyle

25 cars so far, and still the likes of GR Asia, Xero and Kartworld still to confirm their plans, good grid so far and good quality as well.

And the best thing about it in my opinion, more teams are fielding 2 car efforts

[S.Thompson]

This is not totally cofirmed cos its not on the btcc web site, but if you look on Xero Competition they quote

"The Xero Lexus competing in this years British Touring Car Championship, is well under way. It will benefit from all of the development that the team has worked on for the last year."

and see the pic the car is yellow!!

[tdb]

All will be revealed the end of next week!

[VkmSpouge]

Can't wait for it. Hope the liveries will be striking.

[thompp]

I see Kartworld have been advertising for drives this year in Autosport. Not a popular destination then for budding 2008 drivers?

[VX_Rules]

Not a popular destination then for budding 2008 drivers?

After watching Fiona Leggate gracefully roll into some tyres at Goddard at a wet Donnington last year, it wouldnt be hard at getting better drivers, and the team must be good at quick repairs now after those awful MGs.

Surely they will have someone?

[Marc W]

After watching Fiona Leggate gracefully roll into some tyres at Goddard at a wet Donnington last year, it wouldnt be hard at getting better drivers, and the team must be good at quick repairs now after those awful MGs.

Surely they will have someone?

The reason she hit the tyres were because her wipers had failed (leaving her with zero visibility) after not being connected properly in the first place when the car had last been worked on.

[VX_Rules]

Haha, I just remembered the time that the Kartworld forgot to refuel both the cars and the both ran out of fuel half way round the race! :D

[Marc W]

Another one for the list, Adam Jones has confirmed for 2008 again run by GR Asia and with sponsorship for Aircool engineering, which hasn't gone under as some people have been saying;

http://www.adam-jones.co.uk/

No car for media day though as it's not built yet!

[LiamM]

What it doesnt say is the amount of rounds hes gonna be doing, but one more to the list is good!

[VkmSpouge]

They need to do something about line spacing in that article. Anyway great news to have Adam Jones back and in a Léon too. He could be challenging for victories.

@ Liam, it does say how many rounds:


Following on from the successes of last year Adam is pleased to be competing in all ten rounds of the 2008 BTCC

[Marc W]

What it doesnt say is the amount of rounds hes gonna be doing, but one more to the list is good!

All of them, as GR Asia have left the WTCC this season.

[Alfa Fan]

Confirmed entries according only to press releases on the official btcc.net website.

Fabrizio Giovanardi Triple Eight Vauxhall Vectra
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=750
Matt Neal Triple Eight Vauxhall Vectra
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=778
Tom Onslow-Cole Triple Eight Vauxhall Vectra
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=836
Jason Plato Northern South SEAT Leon TDi
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=815
Darren Turner Northern South SEAT Leon TDi
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=815
Gordon Shedden Team Dynamics Honda Civic
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=802
Tom Chilton Team Dynamics Honda Civic
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=802
Colin Turkington West Surrey Racing BMW 320SI E90
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=817
Stephen Jelley West Surrey Racing BMW 320SI E90
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=856 (http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=817)
Mike Jordan Team Eurotech Honda Integra
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=789
Andy Jordan Team Eurotech Honda Integra
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=789
Harry Vaulkhard Robertshaw Racing Chevrolet Lacetti
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=813
Matt Allison Robertshaw Racing Chevrolet Lacetti
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=857 (http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=813)
Alan Taylor Robertshaw Racing Honda Integra
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=813
Michael Doyle In-Tune Racing Honda Civic Type-R
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=813
Matt Jackson Jackson Motorsport BMW 320SI E90
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=821
TBA Motorbase Performance BMW 320SI E90
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=820
TBA Motorbase Performance BMW 320SI E90
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=820
Rick Kerry Team AFM with NJL Racing BMW 120d
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=829
Nick Leason Team AFM with NJL Racing BMW 120d
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=829
Chris Stockton BTC Racing Lexus IS200
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=840
Stuart Oliver BTC Racing Lexus IS200
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=852 (http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=840)
John George TH Motorsport Honda Integra
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=841
Erkut Kizilirmak Arkas Racing Vauxhall Astra Sport Hatch
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=850
Martyn Bell Arkas Racing Vauxhall Astra Sport Hatch
http://btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=850

Updated list. 25 entries confirmed on btcc.net, Jason Hughes' and Adam Jones' entries still awaiting an official press release.

[Iain]

Surely an announcement on the driver's own website is as good as?

[dwracing23]

Surely an announcement on the driver's own website is as good as?

Yes you can take that as 100% that he will be in the Championship, the car is currently getting built in spain and will be a petrol car. I think with Mr Ridgeway behind him he will push for race wins, Paul's experience with Seat Toledos and Leons will really help Adam push very hard at the front, I would expect him to be like M.Jackson last year, with him doing all 10 he will push Jackson hard.

[PDS]

And even though Adam told me at the recent GT media day.... It still doesn't count!?!

Perhaps he was lying?

[Funks]

Given that Mr Jones is not doing a full season in GTs, and unless he has some other deal up his sleeve elsewhere, I took it that the 'other commitments' that are referred to by Modena are that he is playing in BTCC during those clashes. (Adam misses 3 GT dates because of the 'other commitments' and there are 3 GT / BTCC date clashes at my last count).

[murrayfan]

great news lets hope he can take it to the big guns :)

[VkmSpouge]

I'm hoping the Léon will have the same livery as the Toledo.


Surely an announcement on the driver's own website is as good as?

To be fair to Alfa Fan it is at least a consistent standard for announcements.

[Northern Monkey]

First comments from Adam here:

http://www.crash.net/news_view.asp?id=160629&pid=0&cid=10&news=y

Also no AFM Racing, for now:

http://www.crash.net/news_view.asp?id=160627&pid=0&cid=10&news=y

[Allyc85]

Sad to hear AFM are missing the start of the season but it sounds like the right decision to me.

[VkmSpouge]

Well hopefully AFM will join the championship soon.

[Les]

it is sad Nick & Rick won't be there but the 'register and stop testing' is too much of a restriction

[71minus2]

http://www.btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=864

i believe this is the news we were all waiting for. 27 registered, hopefully 10 or more with realistic winning potential.

Richard.

[VXRDartford]

Why doesn't it surprise me that there is no Xero competition on the entry list!!!

Great news about the 27 confirmed drivers. Hopefully that will grow with AFM later in the year. No MG's this year tho

[DazzlaF1]

Team 48 Motorsport with 2 Alfa Romeos for Darele Wilson and Matthew Gore

That one's a suprise

[ATF]

Some extra details on todays announcements here:

Jackson gets BMW backing:
http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/65638

Collard and Kane join Motorbase:
http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/65633

Football stars set up Team 48:
http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/65635

[Robinho]

Collard a slight surprise, nice to see him back, despite some peoples misgivings.

the Alfa's are a massive surprise, nice to see a good bit of diversity on the grid, and a lime green car is one way to get noticed, i wish them the best of luck.

the entry list has Jason Hughes in an Integra, but Touring car times mentions he's still using the MG, whats the story, i assume he has the Integra?

if AFM and Xero turn up with 2 cars each we're at 31 cars. TDB, when can we expect the big announcement - its been on the cards for a couple of weeks now and you said it would be announced on Touring Car Times

[ATF]

I've read somewhere that the Alfas won't be out at Brands but a field of 25 is still pretty good going!

As for Hughes, I doubt the official site would get it wrong, but a member on another forum suggests that an MG has turned up today?! Surely not!!

[Mcp138]

Nice grid size! Should be even better then last year. I dont expect Xero to be out at all this year, but could be suprised if they find the right driver with the bucks

[WSRfan82]

offical 2008 list of drivers and look as well have an alfa yay!!!!!!!!!

1. Fabrizio Giovanardi VX Racing Vauxhall Vectra M
4. Matt Neal VX Racing Vauxhall Vectra M
5. Colin Turkington Team RAC BMW 320si I
7. Mat Jackson BMW Dealer Team UK BMW 320si I
9. Tom Chilton Team Halfords Honda Civic
10. Tom Onslow-Cole VX Racing Vauxhall Vectra M
11. Jason Plato SEAT Sport UK SEAT Leon TDi M
12. Darren Turner SEAT Sport UK SEAT Leon TDi M
15. Martyn Bell Arkas Racing with Sunshine.co.uk Vauxhall Astra I B
16. Harry Vaulkhard Robertshaw Racing Chevrolet Lacetti I
19 Darrell Wilson Team 48 Motorsport Alfa Romeo 156 I
21. Adam Jones Team AirCool SEAT Leon TFSi I
24. Steven Kane Motorbase Performance BMW 320si I
25. Rob Collard Motorbase Performance BMW 320si I
26. Matt Allison Robertshaw Racing Chevrolet Lacetti I
28. Jason Hughes Kartworld Racing Honda Integra I
32. Alan Taylor Robertshaw Racing Honda Integra I B
33. Michael Doyle InTune Racing Honda Civic Type-R I B
42. Stuart Oliver BTC Racing Lexus IS200 I
43. Chris Stockton BTC Racing Lexus IS200 I
48 Matthew Gore Team 48 Motorsport Alfa Romeo 156 I
50. Stephen Jelley Team RAC BMW 320si I
52. Gordon Shedden Team Halfords Honda Civic
55. John George TH Motorsport Racing with JAG Honda Integra I B
77. Mike Jordan John Guest Racing Honda Integra I B
78. Andrew Jordan John Guest Racing Honda Integra I B
90. Erkut Kizilirmak Arkas Racing with Sunshine.co.uk Vauxhall Astra I B

[WSRfan82]

o and way does plato have #11 and not #2 and turner #12

[cos]

Those finishing in the top 10 in the previous year are entitled to those numbers if they want them, but they don't have to! SEAT have always gone for #11 and #12 recently, Gore and Wilson are #48 and #19 for obvious reasons, BTC like #42 and 43#, Shedden's lucky number is #52...

[Mp3 Astra]

o and way does plato have #11 and not #2 and turner #12

Plato like number 11 it appears. He's used it quite a few times before (although I don't remember which years). Anyway, if you add the digits in 11 together you get 2, so he is sort of carrying the number 2. :D

And Gordon Shedden has gone back to the number 52, which seems to be his favourite number too.

[touringlegend]

2006 has been the only year Seat didn't use #11 and #12. They were #4 (Plato), #14 (Thompson), and #24 (Turner).

[tdb]

I dont expect Xero to be out at all this year, but could be suprised if they find the right driver with the bucks

Well your expectations are incorrect and we have 2 drivers signed and both of them have the bucks!

[tdb]

TDB, when can we expect the big announcement - its been on the cards for a couple of weeks now and you said it would be announced on Touring Car Times

It will be on touringcartimes, however the decision of when is not mine, that is for the drivers and sponsors to decide.

we have 2 tests planned in the next week before heading to brands so it will be before then.

[A Scotsman]

So no Fiona then? Pity really... I'd like to see more girls racing..

[Alfa Fan]

So no Fiona then? Pity really... I'd like to see more girls racing..

Hopefully she'll be doing Clio Cup or SEAT Cupras. I still fear she'll find her way onto the BTCC grid tho..

[Brown, Jon Brow]

What spec are the RAC BMW's?

[tdb]

are you asking if they are S2000?

If so, yes they are.

Same cars as matt jackson's and motorbase performance's cars

[Brown, Jon Brow]

are you asking if they are S2000?

If so, yes they are.

Same cars as matt jackson's and motorbase performance's cars

no, what I meant is are they 2008 spec or the same cars they had least year?

[Robinho]

jacksons is latest spec i believe, not sure about motorbase, but they are new to them so at least '07 spec if not '08

[VXRDartford]

What spec are the RAC BMW's?


They are 2008 spec but used the 2007 engine at Rockingham. Wont get the new engine until Brands

[Marc W]

I just posted this on btcc.net but as I know not everyone visits there so here it is again!;

I thought you might like to know some news on Fiona. She has had a major new sponsor change their mind at the last minute which was why she hasn't entered yet. She is intending to race in the BTCC in 2008 (Sorry Jonathan! ;) ) but it's unlikely to be a full season. She is also working on an excitng non racing project but I can't say anymore on that at the moment as it's still top secret! If I have anything else definate I can tell you I'll let you know, but also keep an eye on the website for announcments.

[Alfa Fan]

No wonder they changed there mind. Shame it doesn't seem to have convinced her to prove herself in a lower formulae first! She was statistically the worst driver in the championship. P31 in the series, where no grid was over 26 says it all!!! Hughes managed P16 and respectable points haul in an older car. Say what you like about luck, etc, but statistics don't lie and you make your own luck!

[Clark Trent]

No wonder they changed there mind. Shame it doesn't seem to have convinced her to prove herself in a lower formulae first! She was statistically the worst driver in the championship. P31 in the series, where no grid was over 26 says it all!!! Hughes managed P16 and respectable points haul in an older car. Say what you like about luck, etc, but statistics don't lie and you make your own luck!

She also had the most unreliable car on the grid. I'm sure KWR did their best but it appeared that Jason's car got the attention and Fiona had to wait. I think the final straw was when her wheel fell off at Thruxton during qualifying.

[CroftPilgrim]

jacksons is latest spec i believe, not sure about motorbase, but they are new to them so at least '07 spec if not '08

Mat Jackson's car is last years WTCC winner (so 2007 spec):
http://www.btcc.net/html/generalnews_detail.php?id=862&PHPSESSID=bc3fce631a98928d12dd2485aaddd724

I read somewhere yesterday (which I now can't find) that the Motorbase cars are 2008 spec.

[cos]

Motorbase got the 2007 Schnitzer cars. However, I'm sure RAC, Motorbase and Jacksons can get all the relevant 2008 'upgrades' for their 320sis from Munich... there must be so many new parts and improvements during the course of a year that there's no such thing as a simple "2007 spec" or "2008 spec" machine.

[Marc W]

No wonder they changed there mind. Shame it doesn't seem to have convinced her to prove herself in a lower formulae first! She was statistically the worst driver in the championship. P31 in the series, where no grid was over 26 says it all!!! Hughes managed P16 and respectable points haul in an older car. Say what you like about luck, etc, but statistics don't lie and you make your own luck!

Fiona's abilities were nothing to do with why they changed their mind. I might have guessed you'd have used this as an excuse to have another dig! :rolleyes:

[VX_Rules]

I kinda want Leggate back, she was good for the comedy...

[CroftPilgrim]

there must be so many new parts and improvements during the course of a year that there's no such thing as a simple "2007 spec" or "2008 spec" machine.

Yeah, you're probably right!

[S.Thompson]

tdb mentioned there was going to be a press release from xero at the end of the week it was spotted the lexus had changed colour etc on there website. so whats happened to this?

no show at media day or registration are they going to be out this year?

[VX_Rules]

Mystery isnt it? :/

Press release could be to confirm no entry?

[VkmSpouge]

I think from what tdb said on the forum that Xero want some more testing so in order to get around the testing restrictions they haven't registered yet. Hopefully they'll be on the grid at Brands Hatch. I'd imagine we'll get a press release sometime before Brands Hatch if they intend to enter.

[tisme]

I think what tdb is trying to say, is that Xero would rather appear with a fully functioning race car when they announce what they are doing!

Unlike a certain team at the media day who turned-up with a 'showcar' and has taken a lot of stick for doing so!

Typical British reaction.. Dammed if you do and dammed if you don't..

Jees! Give em a break!

[VkmSpouge]

I do agree with you. I don't know why some people have seemed so negative towards Team 48 Motorsport and other teams. 48 have the drivers, showed up at the media day, have paid their entry fee and apparently do have the cars; precisely what more do some people want before the first race of the season?
As for Xero I'll believe tdb when he says they'll be racing.

[tdb]

Thankyou for the positives guys.
Perhaps a detailed explaination is in order to clarify for the people that have missed or failed to understand my previous posts.

So.... here goes,
Since 2006, we have continued to develop the cars(lexus is200), we have made investment as and when we have been able to, we have tested 1 car on a regular basis and have found a lot of improvement.
Our engine builder has worked hard and through a technical partner we have developed a new intake system which with the engine development has given us a significant increase in BHP.

We have 2 drivers committed to the BTCC and we WILL be racing this year!
Both proven race winners!

Both cars have undergone bare shell repaint and rebuilds. (no small task, trust me)

We are a very busy team, as can be seen on our website.

The cars need to be tested thoroughly before we race them, we do not want to be trailing round at the back.

We want to prove that we can acheive something, Yes we could go out and buy Vectra's or BMW's and be at the front, but we want to make the cars we have work well.

I alone probably work 3 times as many hours at my job than the average fan does and beleive me, after 12 years working in touring cars, Nobody wants this project to work more than me!

I left work at 7.30 tonight and car 1 is ready to go.
car 2 has a little bit left to do, but that is down to suppliers.

As for the expected press release, yes it should have been sooner, but our drivers and sponsors have something special planned, so that is their call.

Let me assure you absolutely that Xero competition will be at Brands Racing lexus in the BTCC!

And finally: to all the doubters, make sure you come and say hello this year.
Just come to the xero garages and ask for me, i'll be happy to show you what you can see is REAL!!

[cos]

Thanks for the update tdb, looking forward to seeing those cars out at Brands. Having not registered for media day, does that mean the cars will carry late entry ballast?

[S.Thompson]

Thanks for the reply tdb.
Im sorry if my post sounded blunt i was just interested if you guys were out there this year, cos there was no press release/registration thought u might have lost a sponser or something. But glad to here you havent.

Looking forward to seeing you guys out there this year!! Il b supporting you.

[SEATFreak]

I do agree with you. I don't know why some people have seemed so negative towards Team 48 Motorsport and other teams. 48 have the drivers, showed up at the media day, have paid their entry fee and apparently do have the cars; precisely what more do some people want before the first race of the season?

I don't know what negative comments have been levelled at Team 48 but as a Sunderland fan I know what they are trying to achieve.

John Barnes is working for the club as a scout in Jamaica and particularly Trinidad & Tobago scouting for talent with the aim of not just cultivating more football stars from the Carribean for the English football leagues but also promote the doing of the sport in the Carribian. John, along with Luther (Blissett) and Les (Ferdinand) are seemingly to me doing the same with motorsport as paragraphs 4 & 5 on the Autosport article covers that which proves it. And commemorating what must have been a important goal for 300 people (the total passengers) of seeking work in the mother country (UK) seems to me a great way of getting more people from the area in motorsport.

[VX_Rules]

Ive personally not seen any negative comments for Team 48.

And im excited for Xero and extremely intrigued in how much performance a team will really get out of the Lexus now with really trying!

And your right, going out to buy BMWs is a bit of a cop out...

[MBailey06]

On the Team 48 front, the negative comments have been on other sites rather than here, so I'll probably read this sites forum more regularly as a result.

[VX_Rules]

Oh ok. Well thats a shame people are pessimistic on things that should be very possitive.

[coxmattycox]

I admire teams efforts with the lexus's, the problem i see is that theyve been around for a few years now and there is even a new model of the is 200 out.

Look forward to seeing the improvments tho, and compared to BTC.

Are both teams developing the cars sep or have you worked together atal?

Thanks

[BeeJ_UK]

Looking forward to seeing Xero out again. TDB if you see some one dressed in an Orange Baby gro lurking with intend by your garage say hello :-)

[Robinho]

As for the expected press release, yes it should have been sooner, but our drivers and sponsors have something special planned, so that is their call.

Let me assure you absolutely that Xero competition will be at Brands Racing lexus in the BTCC!

And finally: to all the doubters, make sure you come and say hello this year.
Just come to the xero garages and ask for me, i'll be happy to show you what you can see is REAL!!

has anyone any news from Brands, any sign of Xero yet? i'd love to think they are going to turn up, but if there is something special planned in terms of a press release, turning up unannounced at Brands certainly wouldn't fit in with that plan.

i suppose TDB didn't say when they'd be at Brands, so perhaps they definately will show at the other round there later in the year and season opener was too soon for them?

[Allyc85]

No news on their own website, or any of the major motor sport sites either. Bit sad really....

[Alfa Fan]

No surprise really. How many teams in the past have put in a serious entry after missing media day? I can count them on one hand