Who’s Going to Take the BTCC Crown in 2025?
The British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) is gearing up for another thrilling season, and the excitement is palpable. With 24 drivers vying for the title, the competition promises to be fierce. Among the contenders, Tom Ingram stands out, not just for his skill behind the wheel but for his determination to reclaim the championship title that narrowly slipped away from him in 2024.
Ingram’s Heartfelt Drive for Redemption
It’s been six months since that heart-wrenching finale at Brands Hatch, where Ingram lost the championship to Jake Hill by just a single point. The conditions that day favored Hill’s rear-wheel-drive BMW, while Ingram’s front-wheel-drive Hyundai struggled, ultimately finishing sixth. Reflecting on that moment, Ingram admits, “Sometimes you learn more out of not winning.” This loss has only fueled his hunger for victory as the new season kicks off at Donington Park.
Ingram’s approach this off-season has been methodical. He’s focused on analyzing every detail that could have contributed to his near-miss. “It’s a case in point of how competitive the championship is now that it comes down to such fine margins,” he notes. With such a tight-knit field, every fraction of a second counts, and Ingram is determined to leave no stone unturned in his quest for the title.
The Competition: A Triumvirate of Talent
Ingram isn’t alone in his pursuit. He faces stiff competition from two other top-tier drivers: reigning champion Jake Hill and four-time champion Ash Sutton. Hill will defend his title in the same BMW that brought him success last year, while Sutton returns in his Ford Focus ST, eager to add another trophy to his collection. The rivalry among these three is electric, and as Ingram puts it, “Who will prevail remains anyone’s guess at this stage, which is precisely why we love the BTCC.”
The level of competition is at an all-time high, with drivers and teams pushing the limits of performance. Ingram describes qualifying sessions as nail-biting, with mere tenths of a second separating multiple cars. “It’s not just the drivers; it’s the engineers, the tyre strategy, the little bit of luck that comes in as well,” he explains. This complexity is what makes the BTCC so captivating for fans and participants alike.
A New Era: Sustainable Fuel and Lighter Cars
One of the most significant changes for the 2025 season is the BTCC’s shift away from its hybrid system to 100% sustainable fuel. The new formulation, Hiperflo ECO102 R100, is derived from synthetic and biological sources, marking a progressive step towards sustainability in motorsport. This change has also resulted in cars being 55kg lighter, a factor that Ingram and his fellow drivers are excited about. “It feels great,” he says, recalling the last time they raced at this weight back in 2021.
The cars will also feature a power boost mechanism to enhance overtaking opportunities, shifting from an electric push-to-pass system to one that utilizes air pressure. This change aims to maintain competitive racing while simplifying the technical aspects that drivers had to manage in previous seasons.
Strategic Tyre Choices: The Key to Victory
Tyre strategy will once again play a crucial role in determining race outcomes. This year, the top three finishers in the first race must use the hardest tyre compound in the second race, adding an extra layer of strategy to the weekend. Ingram emphasizes the importance of tyres, especially on tracks like Oulton Park, where performance can vary significantly. “Tyres are the biggest variable,” he notes, underscoring the mental fortitude required to navigate the season’s ups and downs.
The Absence of a Legend: Colin Turkington
One notable absence this season is Colin Turkington, a titan of the BTCC with multiple titles to his name. His departure from WSR leaves a significant void, but the return of three-time champion Gordon Shedden adds a thrilling twist to the mix. Ingram acknowledges the impact of Turkington’s exit but is excited about the competitive spirit Shedden brings back to the championship. “We know Gordon is feisty,” he quips, hinting at the intense rivalries that are sure to unfold.
Looking Ahead: The Championship’s Unpredictability
As the season unfolds, Ingram remains cautious yet optimistic. “You can’t rule anyone out of this championship; that’s the beauty of it,” he says. With so many talented drivers on the grid, surprises are bound to happen. His experience has taught him to focus on his own performance, a mindset that could be crucial in a championship defined by its unpredictability.
The big takeaway? The BTCC isn’t just about speed—it’s about strategy, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. As the 2025 season kicks off, fans can expect a rollercoaster of emotions, fierce rivalries, and perhaps a few unexpected twists. So buckle up; it’s going to be an exhilarating ride!