1 - BTCC

Transcription

1 - BTCC

SH
CONTENTS
1
2
3
Welcome 2-3
The Championship 4-9
The Contenders 10-15
4 Regulations 5
6
16-19
2016 Calendar 20-21
TV & Media 22-27
7 Sponsorship & Marketing 28-33
8 Hospitality TOURING
CAR
CHAMPIONSHIP
34-37
9 Spectator Appeal 38-43
10 Media & Spectator Data 11 SUPPORT RACES
12 TOCA Team & Contacts
44-47
48-51
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BRI T I S H TOURI NG
CA R CHA MP I ONS HI P
WELC OM E
FR O M
A L AN
GO W
Welcome to our 2016 Dunlop MSA British
The 2016 BTCC and its supporting series will of
radio, magazines, newspapers and online media
Our extremely close and valued partnership with
My congratulations go to Gordon Shedden and
Within this brochure you will see statistics and
Touring Car Championship brochure. This
course again be broadcast live and free-to-air
to cover the sport, which subsequently helps
Dunlop is one of the most enduring in motor
Honda Yuasa Racing for claiming back both the
quotes from senior directors of a number of
document identifies exactly why interest in the
on the UK’s largest commercial network – and
bring the series to many more millions globally.
sport and is a huge asset to the championship.
Drivers’ and Manufacturers’ honours, as well as
blue-chip companies, who outline the huge
BTCC from teams, drivers, sponsors, media and
there’s every expectation that the annual
In fact, the support and stability between the
to Jason Plato who pushed Gordon every lap of
benefits they’ve enjoyed through being involved
fans is at an all time high – in fact why the BTCC
audiences will topple the 20 million figure for
Moving into its second decade as title sponsor in
BTCC and all of our long-term commercial
the way. Congratulations also to Colin Turkington
and associated with Britain’s biggest motor
is so often referred to as ‘the only game in town’.
the third consecutive year.
2015, the Goodyear Dunlop group continues to
and technical partners is something I’m
for securing the Independents’ laurels for the
racing series.
demonstrate its incredible commitment, which
extremely proud of. Very few major motor sport
fifth time in his career and to Team BMR for
Our great championship continues to go from
The BTCC remains the only UK motor racing
not only highlights its greatly appreciated loyalty
championships can boast such significant
winning the coveted Teams’ and Independent
I hope you share the enthusiasm conveyed in
strength-to-strength, with records tumbling both
series to boast such massive live free-to-air
and passion for the BTCC, but clearly proves the
long-term relationships…so I guess we must be
Teams’ titles – a fantastic achievement for the
this document and look forward to you playing
on and off the track in recent years. The 2015
television coverage of every round, totalling
ongoing substantial investment returns that the
doing something right.
impressive emergent outfit.
a part in Britain’s biggest motor sport
campaign again epitomised exactly what the
more than a staggering 220 hours per season
championship provides both on and off
BTCC is all about… nail-bitingly close no-holds-
– something that not even Formula 1 can offer
the track.
After producing a record-breaking 11 different
Josh Cook – our Jack Sears Trophy winner –
barred racing, played out in front of millions
in the UK. This comprehensive, high quality
race winners in 2014 – a number that most
should be greatly applauded for scooping top
watching both trackside and on television.
and dedicated coverage provided by ITV is one
championships can only dream of – it was
‘rookie’ honours. Josh also scored an outright
of the most coveted of any motor sport series
always going to be a difficult figure to follow.
podium, as did fellow young guns Tom Ingram
anywhere in the world.
Our incredible field of teams and drivers made
and Aiden Moffat, whilst Jack Goff claimed his
an extremely good attempt, however, with ten
first ever victory – highlighting the vast pool of
Gordon Shedden proved an extremely worthy
champion, with the destiny of the title changing
success story.
hands on only the 550th racing lap of the 555
Our championship also continues to generate
victors reaching the top step of the podium
terrific young talent that are the future of
that were run over the course of the season.
more media coverage than ever before, both
in 2015.
the BTCC.
This thrilling finale took place in front of a
through its multi-year agreement with leading
record crowd of some 42,000 at Brands Hatch,
publishing house Haymarket Media Group and
With around a third of the entire field winning
We couldn’t put on this magnificent sporting
with hundreds of thousands more glued to
the literally hundreds of independent media
a race, it not only firmly illustrates how very
spectacle without our loyal teams, drivers,
the action live on ITV4. In fact, impressive
outlets that follow and report on the BTCC in the
competitive the championship is but also
venues, officials, sponsors, partners, marshals
spectator numbers and TV viewing figures were
UK and around the world. The championship’s
how well matched the various performance
and of course our fans. All are critical to the
again a constant theme throughout the season,
high-calibre sporting, professional and
characteristics are of the 11 different makes and
success of this great championship.
highlighting once more the BTCC’s healthy and
entertainment levels attract major national TV,
13 models of car that graced our grids.
With best regards,
Alan J Gow
BTCC Series Director
enviable position as one of the world’s greatest
motor racing spectacles.
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“
The number of cars, the quality of the drivers
and the incredible support from sponsors and
fans makes it a no-brainer. Most international
series cannot match the quality of the BTCC.
Tim Harvey
ITV
T H E
”
C H AM P I O NSH I P
T hese
are
H alc y on
our
Day s
The Dunlop MSA British Touring Car
Mazda, Toyota and Alfa Romeo were the
Honda brought the all-new, headline-grabbing
One of the BTCC’s key strengths is the ability
Championship is one of the longest standing,
first three winners of the decade as the
Civic Type R to the track even before it hit
for independently run outfits to compete against
most highly recognised and successful racing
championship continued to be run for several
the showrooms in 2015, and with Gordon
major carmakers on a level playing field,
series on this planet. With an unbroken history
classes of car, but the mighty Ford RS500 and
Shedden at the wheel it was all-conquering.
and this year the efforts of Team BMR RCIB
stretching all the way back to 1958, only
BMW M3 – dominant as the 1990s loomed
Shedden clinched the sought-after crown at
Insurance undoubtedly illustrated this.
Formula 1 and NASCAR in America have lasted
– are probably the two most memorable and
the season finale, bagging the marque its fifth
longer. Over its 57 years, the BTCC has seen an
evocative models of the era.
manufacturers’ title in the process. The BTCC
From humble beginnings back in 2013 when
was Honda’s most successful major motor sport
team owner and driver Warren Scott ran a single
programme in 2015.
Seat Leon entry, the Buntingford-based squad
incredible range of cars and drivers take to the
track, producing an impressive list of legendary
It was in the 1990s that the BTCC enjoyed a
racing names on the championship trophy.
huge boom period, the legacy of which can still
has expanded exponentially and in 2015 fielded
be felt in the vast following – both nationally
“We are very proud to have had such fantastic
no fewer than four Volkswagen CCs, as well as
Since its inception, the BTCC has remained
and internationally – that the series enjoys
success with the Civic Type R in its very first
an all-star driver line-up that included both Colin
true to its core, pitting highly tuned versions
in the present day. Two decades ago the car
year of racing,” said Honda UK Managing
Turkington and Jason Plato.
of the most popular road cars of the period
manufacturers were riding the crest of an
Director Philip Crossman. “We have a very close
against one another on the UK’s unique and
economic wave, spending enormous amounts of
relationship with the BTCC and love what it’s all
Having lifted the teams’ and independent teams’
challenging race tracks. It’s a formula that
money in a bid for dominance in the BTCC. Alfa
about – from a massive and engaged fan base
trophies, Scott has undoubtedly got plenty to be
proved an immediate success with the British
Romeo, BMW, Ford, Honda, Mazda, Nissan,
to superb TV coverage, it’s the perfect place for
pleased with. “From the moment we set foot in
public, inspiring generation after generation of
Peugeot, Renault, Toyota, Vauxhall and Volvo all
us to showcase our cars and demonstrate what
this championship we knew that we’d become
motor sport fans.
fielded factory-backed outfits, and although the
they can do.
part of something very special,” he comments.
unsustainable financial bubble may have burst
“I’ve raced in a number of different series over
Variety has always been the spice of life for the
at the turn of the millennium, the legacy of such
“To take both the drivers’ and manufacturers’
the years, but nothing comes close to this – the
BTCC, and in the early years an incredible array
varied and high-level competition undoubtedly
title really gives us a special buzz – there’s
BTCC is not only a brilliant spectacle, it’s a
of British-built cars duelled it out for winners’
remains.
nothing quite like it and to win at a time when
genuinely friendly, vibrant environment and we
the championship is so close and competitive is
wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.
laurels. Jaguar, Austin, Mini, Lotus, Sunbeam
and Triumph were all in their prime when racing
British marque MG and Japanese giant Honda
wheel-to-wheel in the 1960s and 1970s, but by
currently support teams in the BTCC, and
the 1980s the series had taken on a much more
2014 champion squad West Surrey Racing was
international flavour…
recently promoted to constructor status with its
even better.”
three impressive BMW 125i M Sport machines.
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“
Our 2015 BTCC final round was a recordbreaker, with a weekend attendance of 42,000,
and they enjoyed a thrilling conclusion with
the title being decided in the dying moments
of the last race of the season.
”
J o n a th a n P a l m e r
MSV Chief Executive
“To see how far the team has come in such a
No other championship offers the same level of
Cars also have to carry success ballast from
Jonathan Palmer, MSV Chief Executive. “The
short space of time is frankly humbling, and
accessibility and interaction between the stars
race to race depending on their finishing
action on track rarely fails to excite, and the
it makes me so proud to be out there racing
on the track and the fans in the grandstands.
order and championship positions… all of
championship going down to the wire at Brands
alongside these guys.
Almost every event has an ‘open paddock’
which ensures that the BTCC is truly geared
Hatch provides an even bigger draw. Our 2015
policy that gives enthusiasts the chance to meet
towards providing maximum value-for-money
BTCC final round was a record-breaker, with
“To win the teams’ trophy as an independent is
and chat to their racing heroes, and there are
entertainment for its fans.
a weekend attendance of 42,000, and they
something I never dreamed we’d do, especially
also professionally organised pit lane autograph/
not this quickly. This championship never
meet the drivers sessions at each meeting.
ITV commentator and former BTCC champion
decided in the dying moments of the last race
stands still, though, so we’re already making
The weekend serves up a full feast of on-track
Tim Harvey adds: “I’ve been a part of this
of the season.”
preparations for what’s sure to be another
action, and the headlining BTCC heroes are
championship either behind the wheel or
brilliant year in 2016.”
supported by series from some of the biggest
behind the microphone for over 25 years, and I
Refusing to rest on its laurels, the BTCC has
manufacturers around including Porsche,
genuinely believe that what we are witnessing at
also evolved to lead the way in welcoming new
Renault, Ginetta and Ford.
the moment surpasses anything else I’ve seen in
technologies, thereby continually challenging
this championship.
the skills of engineers. It achieved a world first
The BTCC ceaselessly strives to ensure its
future is as significant and successful as its
enjoyed a thrilling conclusion with the title being
in introducing and enforcing new regulations
past, and unquestionably one of the key factors
It’s the bumper-to-bumper, thrill-a-minute
in this is building and strengthening the series’
BTCC that is of course the star attraction and
“The number of cars, the quality of the drivers
that monitored and limited the CO2 emissions
committed and activated fan base. Creating the
the spectators, all with their favourite cars
and the incredible support from sponsors and
of its competing cars. It then pioneered new
best possible trackside experience for families
and drivers to support, are treated to three
fans makes it a no-brainer. There’s no better
technology with title sponsor Dunlop, becoming
is vital, which is why admission to every BTCC
championship encounters on race day. A
place to race or to be a part of motor sport in
the first race series in the world to fit every
event is free for children – in many cases
qualifying session on the Saturday decides
this country – most international series cannot
race tyre with an RFID (radio frequency
up to the age of 16 – ensuring that the next
the starting grid order for race one, with the
match the quality of the BTCC.”
identification) microchip to monitor it’s use in
generation of fans are hooked long before they
finishing order in the first race deciding the
can learn to drive themselves.
race two starting grid. To mix things up yet
The circuits all over the UK are benefitting
further, race three also includes a reversed grid
from this boom time, and in 2015, Brands
element, in which the order of the top ten cars is
Hatch in Kent saw an incredible finale crowd:
jumbled, creating an enthralling final battle.
“British Touring Car events attract some of the
the Championship right through to its
eventual recycling.
biggest crowds to our circuits,” commented
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“
The BTCC is not only a
brilliant spectacle, it’s a
genuinely friendly, vibrant
environment and we wouldn’t
want to be anywhere else.
W a r r e n S c o tt ,
T e a m Ow n e r
T EAM B MR R C I B I n s u r a n c e
”
In the same vein, the BTCC has developed a set
“As the UK’s premier motor racing series the
of green credentials that tick all the right boxes
BTCC should continue to set benchmarks and
with government, the automotive/motor sport
this is another important step we have taken,”
industries and the watching world. In the early
said Series Director Alan Gow. “Whilst random
nineties it became one of the world’s first race
breath testing does happen on occasion at
series to mandate the use of catalytic converters
various motor sport events, the BTCC is the first
and unleaded petrol. And, in recent years, cars
championship in the world to mandate the zero-
powered by diesel, bio-fuels and even liquefied
tolerance limit and back this up with compulsory
petroleum gas have raced successfully, further
testing every day at every event.”
underlining the BTCC’s ability to accurately
monitor, regulate and equalise the performance
With current regulations attracting the biggest,
of different technologies.
most competitive grids ever seen, the BTCC
has undoubtedly shown its ability to adapt
In a UK first, the series also introduced
and evolve with the times, ensuring its place
mandatory breath testing on each day at each
as the most attractive, relevant, popular
event, to ensure that all competing drivers and
and commercially successful motor sport
senior championship officials are free from the
organisation in the country.
effects of any alcohol in their system. Whilst
BTCC drivers and officials are highly unlikely
to risk their safety and those around them by
consuming alcohol immediately prior to or
during a race weekend, even moderate drinking
the night before an event may leave some
residual alcohol in a person’s system, impairing
both their safety and performance.
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T H E
C O NT E ND E RS
D own
to
the
The BTCC keeps getting bigger and better.
Each entrant has been drawn to the BTCC’s
In every way it is the most professional and
accessibility and exposure. With every race
forward-thinking series in the UK – with
broadcast in high definition live and free on
world-class engineers, teams, drivers, officials,
ITV4, as well as live streaming online across the
management and sponsors, it’s little wonder it
nation via itv.com – followed by domestic and
is such a continuing and phenomenal success.
global highlights – everyone knows they are a
Thirty cars line up on the grid at every meeting
part of, and helping to shape, one of the world’s
thanks to very cleverly developed technical
highest profile motor sport championships.
wire
and sporting regulations, which along with
unmatched media exposure which make it an
The BTCC caters for every type of competitor,
undeniably captivating package, and 2015
be they teams with the budget for four cars
proved yet again that the formula works.
or smaller outfits fielding single-car entries.
Whatever their size, they all bring the same
The sheer variety of makes and models of racing
passion and determination that makes the BTCC
car in the BTCC is testament to its current
the magnetic draw it is today. Furthermore,
rich vein of popularity. In 2015, 11 different
because the rewards in the series are so high –
marques were represented with 13 models of
both on and off-track – every team has a golden
car creating a feast of automotive entertainment
and hugely cost-effective opportunity to capture
for the hundreds of thousands of fans that visit
the public’s imagination and engage with the
the circuits over the course of the season and
ever-growing audience.
the millions more watching on TV. As ever there
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is a superb balance of manufacturer-backed
While independent squads make up the majority
entries competing on a level playing field with
of the field, the appeal for major automotive
independent teams, producing fierce racing all
manufacturers, world-class teams, sponsors and
the way down the order.
big-name drivers is as strong as ever.
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“
2015 has been a sensational
rollercoaster for all of us, and
to win the championship in the
way we have is just the most
amazing feeling in the world.
”
James Rogers
Honda Yuasa Racing
Team Manager
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15
6
11
10
1
18
13
7
cars took
to the grid
former
champions
drivers
won races
TRIPLE WORLD
CHAMPION
drivers from 10
different teams
on the podium
Different
teams
drivers achieved
pole position
Different
models
of car
Different
MAKES
of car
Different
TEAMS WON
RACES
2015 gave us an incredible level of competition,
Honda was on the march, with both drivers
point to Plato in the opening race, Shedden
“It’s been another incredible year!” exclaimed
Honda has a long-standing relationship with
for Power Maxed Racing at Rockingham, while
with the championship battle going down to the
winning on the Civic Type R’s debut at Brands
ran into problems in the second encounter, not
long-time Honda driver and now double
the BTCC, and in 2015 crown returned to the
young gun Tom Ingram also had his taste of the
very last few laps of the last race. The pendulum
Hatch, but it was Shedden who put in the most
scoring and demoting him towards the rear of
champion Shedden. “We’ve seen touring car
Japanese manufacturer for the fifth time in the
champagne at the same event. Aiden Moffat,
swung in every direction before the title was
consistent performances, especially when
the grid for race three.
racing at its absolute best. I was just so desperate
modern era.
who just three years previously was the youngest
finally decided; indeed it wasn’t until the second
his car was carrying the significant success
half of the season in August that the standings
ballast afforded to him by a high championship
What followed was a truly enthralling final
the debut year of the Civic Type R and to get the
Despite narrowly missing out on the drivers’
just 16, showed his real progression by scoring
lead was held by a driver for two consecutive
position. He stood on the podium at eight of the
duel, with Plato doing everything he could by
manufacturers’ trophy too is out of this world. It’s
title, Team BMR RCIB Insurance has been
third place at his home round of Knockhill in the
race meetings.
ten events, but far from it all going Shedden’s
taking victory and hoping Shedden couldn’t
even more special than the first time.”
something of a sensation, and it began with the
Laser Tools Racing Mercedes.
way, Plato had scored four wins by the mid-
make up enough ground. Unfortunately for the
At the start of the year it was the two
season summer break and looked in prime
championship’s most successful race-winner,
Honda Yuasa Racing Team Manager James
Turkington joining Aron Smith and team owner
Speedworks Motorsport, which runs Ingram in
manufacturer-backed teams duelling it out, as
position to clinch his third crown.
the Scotsman was on a mission, and charged
Rodgers added: “2015 has been a sensational
Warren Scott to take on the toughest series in
its newly-updated Toyota Avensis, has fought
through the field to grab his second title against
rollercoaster for all of us, and to win the
the UK.
for the last five seasons to take its first BTCC
Honda burst into action with its all-new Civic
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to win – the emotion is unbelievable. To win it in
ever driver to contest a BTCC race meeting aged
signing of an all-star line-up with Plato and Colin
Type R while MG fielded a young gun super
Some bad luck for the Team BMR star
all the odds. It was the perfect example of why
championship in the way we have is just the
team of Jack Goff and Andrew Jordan. Matt
was compounded late on in the year when
the BTCC is so popular, as after 29 races and
most amazing feeling in the world. This has
What the Hertfordshire-based operation
delighted with the Rockingham result. “I was
Neal and Goff led the way on equal points after
Shedden kicked up a gear, and in the crucial
over 500 miles of competitive action the fight
been my first year as Team Manager, and I’ve
achieved was undoubtedly impressive,
pretty speechless – it’s been a long time coming
the Brands Hatch opener, but it wasn’t long
Rockingham and Silverstone events it was the
for glory still raged, and it wasn’t until the final
been completely blown away by the passion,
with Plato finishing overall runner-up in the
and such a lot of work. We had some pretty
before Neal’s team-mate Gordon Shedden and
Honda man in command. This left him with a
chequered flag fell that Shedden and Honda
commitment and competitive spirit in this
drivers’ standings, Turkington winning the
wild celebrations! We came from very humble
two-time series winner Jason Plato were the
seemingly comfortable 23-point advantage going
were sure of their triumph.
paddock.
Independents’ Trophy and the squad picking
beginnings as a team, and when the opportunity
ones trading blows at the top of the table.
into the Brands Hatch finale in October.
up Teams’ and Independent Teams’ honours.
to race in the BTCC arose we grabbed it with
podium, and Team Owner Christian Dick was
With the all-new Type R making its debut on the
“Flash [Gordon Shedden] has been in a class
Between its four drivers, Team BMR scored no
both hands. I can’t even begin to explain how
fewer than 24 podiums, including ten wins.
much has gone into getting us to this stage –
As is so often the case in the BTCC, it was a
The BTCC hadn’t quite finished twisting and
track before it even appeared in showrooms,
of his own in 2015. His driving has just gone to
clash of independent outfit versus manufacturer
turning in 2015, though, and the iconic Grand
it was indisputably an impressive achievement
the next level – we can see it in the data and I
as Team BMR RCIB Insurance brought four
Prix circuit in Kent was to play host to one of the
by the Team Dynamics outfit to develop a
think everyone at home can see it in the way he’s
It was a season of breakthroughs in more ways
goes into preparing the car for a race weekend,
Volkswagen CCs to take on the Team Dynamics-
most memorable and nail-biting finales in the
championship-winning car in such a short time,
handled the Civic Type R. The Honda has been
than one, as 2015 featured three drivers taking
it’s just been amazing, and we’re going to keep
prepared Honda machinery.
history of the series. Having lost only a single
and a fantastic asset for Honda to add to its
a joy to work on, and with Matt Neal also doing a
their first ever podium finishes in Britain’s top
pushing and reach that top step!”
arsenal of accolades.
stellar job to be right there in the title hunt we’ve
series. Rookie driver Josh Cook, who proved
brought the manufacturers’ trophy back to Honda
his class by claiming the Jack Sears Trophy for
which is something we’re all immensely proud of.”
new competitors, blasted to an outright podium
we’re a small group of people and so much
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“
We came from very humble
beginnings as a team, and
when the opportunity to race
in the BTCC arose we grabbed
it with both hands…
it’s just been amazing!
C h r i st i a n D i c k
T e a m Ow n e r
S p e e d w o r k s M o t o r sp o r t
”
Among the rising stars making moves in 2015
There’s a £265,000-plus prize fund, with
was Jack Goff. He piloted his MG to the top step
Dunlop generously rewarding teams with
of the rostrum for the first time in his career
tyre bonuses that alone equate to more than
at Snetterton, prompting jubilation in his team
£165,000. That’s on top of the BTCC’s own
garage. With such success and class coming
£100,000 cash prize fund, shared out across
through the BTCC ranks, the future of the on-
the ten rounds to bestow upon each event’s top
track action is certainly bright.
three independent teams.
The BTCC is famed for its ability to conjure up
Included in the championship registration fee
some real ‘David vs Goliath’ moments and a
is a handsome allocation of paddock and pit
number of incentives are in place to encourage
lane passes for team personnel and VIPs. All
and aid teams, including the partial reversing of
teams are also given the same opportunities to
the leading positions on race three’s starting grid
participate in the BTCC’s promotional activities,
– thereby providing some smaller teams with the
whether pre-race PR stunts or during race day
chance to have their car start from the front of
Pit Lane Walkabout public autograph sessions.
the field, live on ITV4.
In terms of accessibility, exposure, return on
investment, profile and following there has never
been a better time to join Britain’s biggest and
boldest motor racing championship.
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“
R E G U L AT I O NS
E v olution
the
of
We are extremely proud to be able
to continue our long-standing
partnership with the BTCC, the UK’s
highest profile motor sport series.
R a ph a ë l C a i l l é
Swindon Engines
M a n a g i n g D i r e ct o r
re v olution
2016 is an exciting prospect in the Dunlop
foundation for NGTC is an emphasis on some
At this ‘mid-term’ review of the technical
“Actually, it’s great testament to the concept
Teams have the option of running either
MSA British Touring Car Championship for
common bespoke racing components – turbo,
regulations, an exciting new partnership has
of the regulations that they remain largely
the TOCA unbranded NGTC-spec engine or
many reasons, but technical evolutions will
wastegate, intercoolers, electronics, six-speed
been forged with world-class motor sport
the same after five years, without requiring
developing their own powerplant to the same
undoubtedly be one of the main talking points
sequential gearbox, subframe, brakes, dampers
engineering company RML which will update
any more than some fine-tuning to take them
regulations, as long as it is from the same
as the series takes new steps forward in
and suspension – which dramatically drives
and evolve some of the crucial common
through the next five. Very, very few top-level
‘family’ as their chosen model of car.
development.
down expenditure for teams looking to compete
components based on what the teams and
championships have technical regulations that
in one of the world’s most attractive motor sport
officials have learned since NGTC was
are as fundamentally sound and enduring as
The requirement to make available to teams a
The BTCC has always pushed the boundaries.
arenas whilst also creating a more level playing
first introduced.
ours have proven to be.”
cost competitive engine with proven durability
The success of the series is down to the
field for participants.
fundamental element of providing superlative
The ‘BTCC Design Group’ – comprising many
“We are delighted to have been selected
introduction of the NGTC regulations back in
entertainment and thrilling racing, something
of the championship’s leading designers and
by TOCA to provide NGTC chassis design,
2011. A new contract and engine will now take
only made possible by the right combination of
engineers – selected RML for the six-year term
engineering and supply services for the next
the partnership between the two organisations
technical and sporting regulations.
commencing in 2016, not only ensuring that
six years,” adds Simon Holloway, RML Group
through to 2021.
the series continues to develop and thrive but
Commercial Director. “The British Touring
The start of 2016 will mark the five-year point
also that it actively works with its partners and
Car Championship is quite simply the biggest
“We are extremely proud to be able to continue
from the revolutionary introduction of the
competitors to ensure the racing stays close, fair
and best series in the UK so it’s an honour
our long-standing partnership with the BTCC,
BTCC’s unique NGTC technical regulations –
and entertaining.
for the RML Group to play a leading role in its
the UK’s highest profile motor sport series,” said
engineering and design operations.
Raphaël Caillé, Swindon Engines
has been fulfilled by Swindon Engines since the
the formula that has brought capacity grids and
some of the closest racing on the planet. The
”
Alan Gow, Series Director, said: “Our NGTC
Managing Director.
regulations have been incredibly successful for
“As well as its undoubted levels of skill and
the BTCC – no doubt they are one of the most
professionalism on and off-track, the BTCC also
“Swindon Engines has enjoyed a successful
important milestones in its proud 57-year history
enjoys unrivalled commercial opportunities and
relationship with the series since the
– but success is never achieved by merely
welcomes huge audiences both trackside and
introduction of the NGTC regulations, and we
standing still, which is why this ‘mid-term’
on television. Being involved is advantageous
have seen the BTCC flourish both on-track and
review was always scheduled into our ten-year
on so many levels. We’re looking forward to
off-track during this time.
NGTC programme.
working with TOCA and the BTCC teams greatly,
and forging a successful, strong and lengthy
partnership together.”
16
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2016 D UNLOP MS A
“
Our huge entry list is a clear
demonstration of the continuous
phenomenal success of the
championship and the regulations
whilst the long-term value of the
NGTC cars, as well as our TBL
system, is proven.
ALAN GO W
B T C C S ERIE S DIRE C T OR
”
“We have continued to develop our one-fits-all
Since its inception there have been no fewer
Teams may (with the approval of TOCA) sell, gift,
product over the last five years and provide a
than 13 marques and 17 models of car
lease, assign or loan their TBL to other existing
high performing, reliable and consistent unit,
represented under the NGTC regulations, with
teams or eligible and approved new entries on a
which benefits teams throughout the grid.
more expected to follow.
season-long basis only, meaning that each TBL
is a tangible asset of value to every
Our engine remains cost efficient whilst not
compromising on performance.
Russell Morgan, owner of Ciceley Motorsport
licence holder.
which prepares the two stunning Mercedes
“We will continue to provide the teams with
A-Class NGTC cars that have raced to significant
“Our huge entry list is a clear demonstration
the highest level of service, reliability and
success, is a big supporter of the regulations
of the continuous phenomenal success of the
engineering and we look forward to this next
and comments: “We simply wouldn’t have been
championship and the regulations, whilst the
phase in our partnership with the BTCC.”
able to build and run two cars if it weren’t for
long-term value of the NGTC cars, as well as
NGTC. With shared components we don’t need
our TBL system, is well proven,” adds Series
As has been witnessed over the last four
to spend huge amounts on developing specific
Director Alan Gow.
seasons, the regulations allow independent
parts just for the Mercedes, but there’s still
teams to compete on a level playing field against
enough scope for us to utilise the fundamental
As the UK’s premier motor racing series, the
manufacturer-backed outfits by keeping costs
strengths of the car and keep pushing towards
BTCC continues to set benchmarks both on and
down, whilst at the same time rewarding precise
the front. We’re excited for the next chapter in
off the circuit. The undeniable success of the
engineering and all-important split-second
the NGTC story.”
regulations means that the championship is in a
fantastically future-proof situation. The BTCC’s
strategy.
18
To manage the huge popularity of the series and
sporting and technical regulations continue to
The first championship won in NGTC machinery
recognise the commitment of existing teams
show innovation while demonstrating stability,
went to Gordon Shedden and the works Honda
with security of participation, organiser TOCA
competitiveness and reduced costs, all of
team, the two successive seasons were topped
recently introduced a TOCA BTCC Licence
which are incredibly important hallmarks in this
by independent efforts from Andrew Jordan and
(‘TBL’) as part of the entry requirement process.
sport. Whichever way you look at it, the BTCC
Colin Turkington for Eurotech Racing (Honda)
is leagues ahead of every comparable series,
and West Surrey Racing (BMW) respectively,
making it the only place to race for any forward-
before Shedden hit back for Honda in 2015.
looking team, driver or sponsor.
19
2016 D UNLOP MS A
2 / 3 APRIL
B r a n d s H at c h , K e n t
R1
R3
R2
16/17 April
R4
D o n i n g t o n Pa r k ,
DERBYSHIRE / L e i c e s t e r s h i r e
Brands Hatch is situated just south of
London on the A20 in north Kent, only three
Set in the heart of England, Donington is
miles from the M25 and close to the M20
close to both the M1 and M42 motorways.
and M26 motorways.
Birmingham, Derby, Leicester and Nottingham
R6
R5
are all on the doorstep.
R7
2 0 1 6
R9
R8
7 / 8 M ay
Thruxton , Hampshire
C A L E NDAR
EV E RY
C O RNE R
C OV ER E D
18/19 June
The 2015 campaign once more exhibited the
Donington Park, in the East Midlands, will
The wide array of circuits, each with unique
MSA British Touring Car Championship is top
continuing trend of burgeoning crowds seen by
hold its own rounds of the Dunlop MSA British
variances in their characteristics, presents the
of the bill at each of the country’s prime motor
the championship in recent years, indicating
Touring Car Championship and is also privy
teams and drivers with a great range of different
sport venues. The ten-event 30-race calendar
the sustained growth and strength of the BTCC.
to welcoming the world’s media to the annual
challenges – testing competitors’ nerves and
selects the premier circuits, spanning the
Nearly every venue reported record spectator
Season Launch event, as well as playing host to
skills to the limit. Whether it’s the high-speed
length and breadth of Britain to ensure the
attendances for the modern era.
the series’ only official pre-season test.
seat-of-the-pants thrill ride of Thruxton’s
The 2016 calendar encompasses circuits in
“We’re delighted to welcome back the BTCC
of Knockhill’s peaks and troughs in the Fife hills,
Derbyshire, Cheshire, Kent, Fife, Hampshire,
for its annual Season Launch in 2016,”
each venue offers a distinct test.
As a result of the wide geographical reach of
Leicestershire, Norfolk, Northamptonshire and
said Christopher Tate, Managing Director of
the BTCC calendar; teams, drivers, sponsors
North Yorkshire with each of those then hosting
Donington Park. “The fact that this will be the
Furthermore, the BTCC takes great care in
and partners are provided with the opportunity
three races over a BTCC meeting – without
fourth consecutive season that Donington Park
choosing which track layout at each of its
to showcase directly to differing audiences all
doubt the most action packed into a weekend
has hosted this important event is testament
venues will offer the best entertainment for the
over the Britain, in addition to enacting targeted
on offer in motor sport.
to how well it has been received by everyone
crowds in attendance – from the picturesque
R11
4/5 June
O u l t o n Pa r k , C h e s h i r e
Situated close to Chester and the M6 and M62
A34 road networks, provides swift access from
motorways, Oulton Park is easily accessible from
London, Portsmouth and Southampton as well
all the major conurbations in the North West,
as, more locally, Basingstoke, Newbury and
including Manchester and Liverpool as well
Reading.
as North Wales.
R13
R15
R14
3 0 / 3 1 JULY
S n e tt e r t o n , N o r f o l k
R16
R18
R17
Snetterton is next to the A11 to the west of
Croft, near Darlington and the A1, provides
Norwich. Though in rural East Anglia, its
the BTCC with a great base in the North East
huge catchment area includes cities such as
close to Middlesbrough, Newcastle, Sunderland
Cambridge and Ipswich, plus many summer
and York plus swift access across the A66
coastal holiday resorts.
from Cumbria.
sweeping curves or the undulating rollercoaster
best trackside experience reaches the greatest
possible number of spectators.
R12
Thruxton’s location, close to M3, A303 and
C r o f t, N o r t h Y o r k s h i r e
As the UK’s flagship race series, the Dunlop
R10
R19
R21
R20
involved in the BTCC, as well as the media and
Oulton Park Island, to the ‘oval’ stadium at
Arguably the largest attendances are attracted to
fans alike. It’s a fantastic way to launch what I’m
Rockingham or the legendary Brands Hatch
international opportunities afforded by the
the world-renowned Brands Hatch circuit, which
sure will be yet another unforgettable season for
Grand Prix configuration.
series’ incredible global TV coverage. The
plays host to both the season opener and the
the BTCC and Donington Park.”
far-reaching nature of the calendar additionally
title-deciding rounds of the championship eight
ensures hundreds of thousands of fans will not
months later. The equally iconic Silverstone
The championship’s focus on its appeal to
exhilarating action or businesses large and
17/18 September
have to travel too far to see the racing first-hand
circuit – the home of the Formula 1 British
family audiences and sparking interest in
small looking to dazzle staff and clients with
Silverstone,
when the BTCC comes to town.
Grand Prix – always proves a highly popular,
the younger generation is fortified by all of its
a weekend of great fun and excitement, the
Northamptonshire
high-profile fixture too. The picturesque
venues granting free admission to children –
countrywide Dunlop MSA British Touring Car
Oulton Park often attracts upwards of 40,000
some for up to 16-year-olds – for their BTCC
Championship offers something for everyone.
spectators with fans flocking in from the bustling
event.
North West cities and further afield.
Knockhill, Fife
R24
R23
2 7 / 2 8 AUGUS T
Rockingham,
Northamptonshire
With spectacular views over the Forth Estuary,
Of course there is also the ability to tap into
regional and national marketing campaigns.
13/14 August
R22
Knockhill is Scotland’s premier motor sport
Rockingham near Corby is easily accessible
venue. Access is via the M90 between Perth
from both the M1 and A1M motorways.
and Edinburgh or A9 from Glasgow.
Cambridge, Northampton, Peterborough and
Leicester are within 30 minutes.
Whether it be the public chasing a day of
R25
R27
R26
1/2 October
B r a n d s H at c h , K e n t
R28
R30
R29
Brands Hatch is situated just south of
Britain’s Formula 1 Grand Prix venue is off the
London on the A20 in north Kent, only three
A43 between the M1 and M40 meaning easy
miles from the M25 and close to the M20
access from anywhere in the Midlands. Its
and M26 motorways.
catchment area includes Birmingham, Milton
Keynes, Northampton and Oxford.
20
21
2016 D UNLOP MS A
TV
&
It’s
MEDIA
S howtime !
The BTCC sits proudly at the pinnacle of
ITV gives the BTCC a TV arrangement which
British motor sport and as the nation’s biggest
outshines that of high-profile international series
motor racing championship, it’s a brand that is
– in the UK, even Formula 1 cannot compete
recognised the world over – commanding large-
with the level of live free-to-air coverage afforded
scale media coverage.
to a BTCC race day.
Television has consistently been a strong outlet
Perhaps the most telling statistic of all is the
for the BTCC and over the past three decades,
number of people watching the BTCC on TV in
the series has garnered increasingly significant
the UK – having skyrocketed by 35 per cent in
and regular coverage from Britain’s largest TV
2011 they increased again in 2012 to a total
networks.
cumulative viewer number/hours of 19,526,061,
and broke the 20 million barrier in 2013, 2014
ITV
and again in 2015.
As Britain’s premier commercial television
network, ITV has been the key broadcasting
Adding to the live coverage are 60-minute
partner to the BTCC since 2002 with the
race highlights repeated three times after each
company continually delivering increasing
event – on both ITV and ITV4 as well as their
commitment to the championship.
respective HD and ‘plus one hour’ channels
and also simulcast on itv.com. In 2014 and
The network provides around eight hours of live
continuing into 2015, ITV again produced
and free-to-air broadcasting from each of the
a special two-hour post-season highlights
championship’s ten events across its ITV4 and
programme for transmission on ITV4 and ITV4
ITV4 HD channels as well as free live-streaming
HD. Highlights programmes were also available
via itv.com – unprecedented coverage for a UK
to view for 28 days after each event on ITV
motor racing series, with none other enjoying
Player.
anything approaching this level of free-to-air
exposure. In fact, the package provided by
22
23
2016 D UNLOP MS A
“
The British Touring Car Championship
has been a hit with viewers on ITV4,
and ITV Sport is delighted to be
broadcasting the championship until
at least the end of the 2016 season.
We look forward to more great
racing and stories in the years
to come as the BTCC continues
to evolve.
”
Niall Sloane
I T V D i r e ct o r o f S p o r t
When added up, the ITV network’s coverage of
ITV Director of Sport Niall Sloane comments:
The BTCC generates headlines as the
nation’s most-watched lifestyle and consumer
Email campaigns sent out by the BTCC
Zone’ allows them to follow the action through
In addition to the bevy of content distributed
The championship’s continuing concentrated
the BTCC in 2015 came to a mind-boggling total
“The British Touring Car Championship has
championship tours the UK. Regional ITV and
programmes. For example, BBC2’s acclaimed
periodically target Haymarket’s broad list of
live timing, car trackers and circuit commentary
online and in print, the Media Office also
push in the use of social media, re-invigorated
of over 234 television hours.
been a hit with viewers on ITV4, and ITV Sport is
BBC news crews want a slice of the action
Top Gear regularly includes drivers from the
subscribers. Likewise, subscription promotions
from wherever they are in the world over a race
organises an annual Season Launch event –
in 2013, has led to a proliferation of discussion
delighted to be broadcasting the championship
when the teams and drivers roll into town for
BTCC for its TV series that attracts seven
have been sent out to the championship’s
weekend.
offering hundreds of media and thousands
around the BTCC, with more teams, drivers and
Over the past four years, ITV has strived to
until at least the end of the 2016 season. We
the season’s ten weekend-long events. It is
million-plus viewers per episode in the UK
legions of dedicated fans. Haymarket
more sponsors, fans and guests a preview of the
fans getting involved in the conversation than
extend its already burgeoning commitment
look forward to more great racing and stories
commonplace that a local crew will use the pit-
alone. The One Show and This Morning are
logos adorn every race car, as well as the
The online home of the BTCC attracts around
campaign ahead. Donington Park has played
ever before. With an active strategy targeting
to cover the championship in other areas as
in the years to come as the BTCC continues to
lane buzz of a BTCC meeting as a backdrop for
others to have recently covered the BTCC.
championship’s podium and ITV interview
200,000 unique visitors per month, culminating
host to the Season Launch for the past four
engagement, the Official BTCC Facebook and
well. Saturday afternoon qualifying sessions
evolve.”
their live sports bulletins over a weekend or even
backdrops.
in some 40 million individual hits. There are
years and the day offers plenty of opportunity for
Twitter channels have gone from strength-
also almost 40,000 fans who have signed up to
filming of unveilings, cars, drivers and testing,
to-strength. Online attention has grown
from each of the BTCC events are shown
for their weather broadcasts – to audiences of
Media Partnership
millions across their respective regions.
Since 2014, the BTCC has enjoyed a new
BTCC Media/btcc.net
receive official championship communications
as well as interviews with competitors and key
exponentially year-on-year and despite a shift
far-reaching media partnership with one of the
The championship’s busy Media Office keeps
– the latest news and details of exclusive
personnel. The event attracts media of all types
towards paid advertising on social media, the
live on a dedicated and heavily promoted
National & International TV
website at itv.com/btcc. The website also offers
A multitude of networks across six continents
extended coverage through incisive blogs
around the globe – Africa, Asia, Australia,
In 2015, regional TV news previews to race
world’s biggest publishing houses – Haymarket
the global media and the BTCC’s many millions
competitions – enabling teams to further
and from all over the world – recent years have
BTCC has continued to grow at an incredible
and comprehensive bespoke race highlights
Europe, North America and South America –
events – many stored for later viewing on the
Consumer Media. The championship also
of fans up-to-date with the action, also helping
market their sponsors’ products. Social media
boasted record attendances covering print,
rate completely organically. Over 126,000
packages for the public to digest expert analysis
are broadcast partners of the BTCC. Output
BBC’s iPlayer – generated close to 100 minutes
became a partner of some of the nation’s
to stimulate media coverage across a myriad of
is integrated and fully interactive with btcc.net,
radio, TV and online media, including specialist,
fans have ‘liked’ its Facebook page – a 175%
and relive the BTCC season at will.
varies from standalone 45 minute-plus BTCC
with coverage for the following events: Brands
leading motoring publications including Autocar,
outlets. The official website of the BTCC – btcc.
including dedicated pages on Twitter, Facebook,
automotive, lifestyle, consumer, regional and
increase over a two-year period – while its
highlights shows to short bulletin-type edits
Hatch Indy (BBC South East); Donington Park
WhatCar? and PistonHeads with their significant
net – is central to this service as the ultimate
YouTube, Instagram and iTunes.
national press outlets.
Twitter account has attracted 47,500 followers,
ITV, working in conjunction with the BTCC
of action via programmes such as Motorsport
(BBC East Midlands, ITV Central); Thruxton
online presence.
online resource, providing information and
Media Team, cranked up its coverage even
Mundial, Planet Speed and MAX Power on
(BBC South); Oulton Park (ITV Granada); Croft
Integrating the BTCC YouTube channel with
Social Media: #BTCC
further in 2015 by producing an online ‘BTCC
major networks – ESPN, Sky Sports and
(ITV Tyne Tees and BBC Look North); Snetterton
Such partnerships ensure that the
btcc.net is key, given an ever-increasing
The BTCC has always had a reputation for
It’s not uncommon to find #BTCC among the
Extra’ programme following each event.
Star Sports to name a few. In 2015, the
(ITV Anglia); Knockhill (STV and BBC Scotland);
championship is extensively covered by some
Further enhanced by an overhaul in 2014, the
percentage of online content coming in video
offering fans the opportunity to get closer to
top trends in the UK on Twitter in the days
More than 200 minutes of exclusive footage,
championship was also broadcast for the first
Rockingham (BBC Look East); Silverstone (ITV
of the foremost UK automotive publications with
online home of the BTCC incorporates a fresh,
form. Highlights packages are created and
the sport and to their heroes. Now, with more
leading up to and encompassing an event.
interviews and features provided fans with yet
time on the huge CBS Sports Network in the
Anglia); Brands Hatch Grand Prix finale (BBC
features, racing updates and comprehensive
modern design which integrates every aspect
distributed to partners and teams following
people than ever before connecting to the
Similarly, images, teasers and video posted on
more unmissable video content. Further ITV
USA and Canada, reaching some 60 million
South East, ITV Meridian). Moreover, regional
online content. Autocar not only provides
of the championship’s consummate media
each meeting. These are then uploaded to
championship with the BTCC’s online presence,
its Facebook page receive thousands of likes,
features and video montages were added to the
homes with repeat programmes scheduled
TV sportsdesks often feature their local drivers
content tailored to the BTCC and its audiences,
output and btcc.net is widely regarded as an
the BTCC’s official youtube.com/btccdotnet
fans have an unprecedented level of access
views and shares – spreading virally within
BTCC YouTube and Facebook channels over the
several times over.
with footage ahead of or following race events,
but has brought BTCC highlights and features to
industry-leading online environment. Fans are
YouTube channel, which has seen total views
to the inside line – the series, its drivers and
moments of posting.
course of the year, racking up more than two
gaining the BTCC yet more valuable airtime.
an impressive network of over 500,000 YouTube
given access to news, results, video content,
double in the past year from an already sterling
its teams. Digital media is a cornerstone of the
million views in the process.
Through its contacts and appeal, the BTCC
subscribers.
race information and the interactive ‘Live Race
500,000 to 1 million.
championship’s media operation and the BTCC
also generates exposure on some of the
coverage for every aspect of the series.
up some 25% on the previous year.
is constantly stepping up its efforts in looking for
new ways to engage fans.
24
25
2016 D UNLOP MS A
“
”
Phil Daley
BBC Radio Norfolk
The TV coverage and huge number
of spectators have ensured that
our brand has become much more
highly recognised as a household
name. That is a huge draw and
solid opportunity from a sponsor
perspective, and a significant boost
to our marketing efforts.
”
V i ct o r C o u t i n
G a r d X P r o t e ct i o N
In 2015, reach figures for Facebook regularly
instigated, spreading the message more clearly
appear regularly in the national media across
our coverage, with exclusive driver interviews,
though. Hearing from the pit crews, tyre
The official BTCC iTunes podcasting page
average over 300,000 unique users per week
than ever – teams are clearly feeling the benefit.
print and online. The Sun, Britain’s biggest
images, advertising from some of the series’ key
suppliers, commentators and Series Director
was updated from January at the Autosport
selling newspaper, plus fellow national ‘red-
players and competition prizes.
brings the whole event to life.”
International Show, as well as the BTCC Season
– three times the numbers seen in 2013,
attaining a peak of more than 600,000 on the
Merchandise has always been a big part of the
tops’ the Daily Mirror and Daily Star have all
finale weekend. What’s more, the total number
motor sport fan base. The BTCC regularly teams
formed media partnerships with the BTCC –
“This supplement serves as a useful guide and
In addition, widely-read trade and lifestyle
post-race weekend summaries. Driver and team
of monthly impressions averaged over seven
up with official championship suppliers Dread
running race reports and series coverage that
an incentive to readers to go along and lap up
publications from the construction, IT and utility
interviews were updated during every 2015
million – higher than the peak figure from
Merchandise to offer fans the chance to win a
supplements and enhances their motor sport
the high-octane BTCC action. Through our
industries and emergency services plus other
race meeting. A total of 688 interviews were
the previous season. At its peak in the 2015
wide variety of products.
offering alongside Formula 1 and MotoGP.
pre, on and post-weekend reporting, we have
sports have all featured BTCC content.
uploaded to btcc.net’s audio page whilst the
established an excellent relationship with the
The BTCC also provides perfect broadcast
official BTCC iTunes page was updated with
campaign, the page generated an incredible
Launch and between rounds with pre and
Official championship pages have been used
Large provincial news outlets carry plenty of
BTCC and Croft and we hope that endures for
material for the UK’s many radio stations,
over 500 individual podcasts, generating 2.1
throughout the year to promote hospitality
column inches with a focus on the star names,
many years to come.”
including BBC Radio 2 (The Chris Evans
million downloads.
Its effective use of online media allows the
– another core element of the BTCC.
the local drivers and teams. With the ten-
BTCC to reach a global audience in an instant.
Competitions are run in conjunction with teams,
event calendar, influential regionals have the
Similarly, the partnership between local media
talkSPORT. The Championship’s appointed radio
Furthermore, the championship achieved
In combination with btcc.net, content is being
offering ‘money-can’t-buy’ experiences over race
opportunity to arrange hugely beneficial tie-ins
and the BTCC, in this case Snetterton and BBC
agency, Matt Jones Cre8media Ltd, schedules
some 59 hours of airtime on 159 BBC and
enjoyed by more people than has ever before.
weekends and beyond. Contests such as these
with their local circuits, working in conjunction
Radio Norfolk, has been lauded by Phil Daley –
reports and interviews on regional and local
independent radio stations with a potential
The championship’s conscious effort is to keep
not only boost the online reach of teams’ official
with the BTCC. For example, Croft regularly
presenter at the station:
BBC and 27 independent radio stations
audience reach of 57.5 million listeners across
the BTCC at the forefront of conversation over
channels but provide an unprecedented level of
collaborates with the award-winning Northern
covering the country.
the UK in 2015.
sustained periods of time between races as well
access for winners at each round.
Echo newspaper to produce an eight-page pull-
“The British Touring Car Championship is one
11.7 million impressions.
over the course of a race meeting.
and Simon Mayo Shows), BBC 5 Live and
out event preview, while Snetterton and BTCC
of the highlights of the racing season in Norfolk.
With the exponential growth of the BTCC’s
partner Holiday Inn teamed up for a feature in
Not only is it wheel-to-wheel racing as you’d
social media channels, the championship is set
the Eastern Daily Press.
expect, the access to drivers is second to none.
as to bring teams, sponsors and fans together
The BTCC Media Office enlisted the help of
to reach more and more potential fans in the
teams and sponsors during 2015 to deliver
seasons to come.
insight, great prizes and, in the process,
26
“
Not only is it wheel-to-wheel racing as you’d
expect, the access to drivers is second to none.
So often in other sports, getting access to the
top competitors can be hard work and not very
rewarding. Our experience with the BTCC has
always been positive, allowing us access to the
best drivers who are happy to share their story.
So often in other sports, getting access to the
“For the past few years, the Northern Echo
top competitors can be hard work and not very
has liaised with Croft Circuit and the BTCC
rewarding. Our experience with the BTCC has
incredible levels of exposure. Competitions
Radio, Magazines, Newspapers & Online
Media Office to compose a pre-event pull-out,”
always been positive, allowing us access to the
reach hundreds of thousands of unique users
The full breadth of coverage including event
explained Northern Echo Motoring Writer Matt
best drivers who are happy to share their stories.
across BTCC channels each time they are
previews, qualifying reports and race reports
Westcott. “This forms an integral element of
“For our audience, it’s not just the drivers,
27
2016 D UNLOP MS A
“
The BTCC delivers a strong, nationwide multidemographic audience, perfect for any major
consumer brand to build awareness. Moreover,
the championship actively encourages brand
activation and engagement with its fans – it is
fun and incredibly exciting to be a part of it all.
A d a m W e av e r
Automotive Brands
S P O N S O RSH I P
ahead
of
the
&
M A RK E T I NG
pack
The high profile of the BTCC offers a unique
The broad range of companies involved,
Dunlop’s Marketing Manager, Tony Ward,
both an official championship partner and the
opportunity for sponsors – packaging exciting
many of them ‘blue chip’, also demonstrates
comments: “Dunlop’s association with the BTCC
title sponsor of Andy Priaulx’s race-winning,
brand values with a loyal, passionate and
the power of a large crowd and prime-time
is long and well established, and the partnership
West Surrey Racing-run BMW 125i M Sport.
expansive fan base, both trackside and via its
TV audiences, particularly with such strong
really helps us to drive engagement and interest
Not only do the majority of teams, drivers and
unparalleled live free-to-air television coverage.
demographic profiles. That’s why the series has
with our brand. We have been thrilled with the
officials utilise the proximity of IHG hotels in
In fact, the concept of instantly recognisable
such compelling appeal to both consumer and
powerful coverage we receive on ITV4, which
their travels, but legions of fans also make
cars competing bumper-to-bumper provides the
business-to-business products.
promotes the Dunlop brand to an enormous
the most of the special BTCC offers and
audience who all thrive on British motor sport.
competitions around events.
BTCC with just one of a number of USPs that
”
make it the place to be for a whole host of major
The Goodyear Dunlop group has been the
brands and businesses.
championship’s title sponsor since 2004,
“The interesting pack of drivers and fantastic
currently through its premier Dunlop tyre brand.
season of racing across 2015 has enabled us
Sponsors and commercial partners continue
Sister company HiQ, the fast-fit vehicle service
to increase our exposure through social media,
to utilise a range of strategic activation
that enjoyed a spell as headline sponsor from
making the Dunlop feeds one of the top places
opportunities that are unrivalled in contemporary
2008-09, also remains heavily involved. Each
to come for behind-the-scenes action and
British motor sport and clearly make the
exploits its BTCC participation via advertising,
insight. Without the cooperation and enthusiasm
BTCC one of the most attractive 360-degree
social media, public relations and dealer
from the whole BTCC team, we would not have
commercial and communications platforms
communications to both heighten credibility and
been able to make such a significant move in
anywhere within UK sport. Participation grants
deliver key messages.
our customer interaction.”
in front of hundreds of thousands of trackside
For Dunlop, which also exclusively supplies all
Another major name to form a strong
spectators and millions more watching on
tyres to the BTCC’s teams, its ‘Race to Road’
partnership with the BTCC is the
television, and many imaginative and perceptive
message is paramount, as has been promotion
Intercontinental Hotel Group (IHG) – the world’s
companies are taking full advantage of this.
of its Sport Maxx RT road tyre, with similar new
largest hotel group. IHG has successfully used
Moreover, the BTCC commands incredible
products in the pipeline. In 2014, the company
the BTCC to raise awareness within the UK as
levels of fan loyalty that translates directly into
was tasked with evolving its soft-tyre concept
positive results for its associated brands.
to further enhance the unpredictability and
a powerful opportunity to bring a brand to life
exciting wheel-to-wheel action for which the
championship is renowned.
28
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2016 D UNLOP MS A
“
Adrian White
P a r t n e r sh i p M a r k e t i n g D i r e ct o r
I n t e r c o n t i n e n ta l H o t e l G r o u p
”
WE ARE DELIGHTED TO BE IN
PARTNERSHIP WITH THE BTCC.
WE HAVE SEEN THE CHAMPIONSHIP
continue to GO FROM STRENGTH
TO STRENGTH IN RECENT YEARS.
”
ALA S T AIR LE W I S
IN T ERNA T IONAL DIRE C T OR
H ay m a r k e t M e d i a G r o u p
IHG’s Partnership Marketing Director Adrian
“GardX Protection has gained tremendous
Another significant addition to the championship
‘Sponsor space’ on the BTCC’s cars is not just
“We have been involved in the BTCC since
race winner Dave Newsham and standout rookie
regularly approaching 40,000. We have given
He passed with flying colours, and at the
White says: “IHG is proud to have had a close
benefit from our participation in the BTCC in
in 2015 came midway through the campaign
the domain of industry giants, however. There
2012, when we first evaluated its effectiveness
Josh Cook. Managing Director Adam Weaver
away hundreds of thousands of samples to
season’s penultimate race day at Silverstone, he
association with the BTCC for the past ten
2015,” underlines Coutin. “In terms of brand
in the shape of Monster Energy, which adorned
are also many pioneering and entrepreneurial
as a sponsor with a one-round deal in the last
explains that participating in Britain’s biggest
potential customers, resulting in us exceeding
was able to demonstrate his new skills when he
years, firstly with the Holiday Inn brand and
awareness, the exposure has been superb. The
the side of the AmD Tuning-prepared Audi S3 of
companies who see the championship as a
race meeting at Brands Hatch,” comments
motor sport series is a no-brainer for the UK-
our desired uplift in sales for all our brands.
drove a Mercedes truck around the circuit.
now with our new loyalty brand, IHG Rewards
TV coverage and huge number of spectators
Nicolas Hamilton, brother of multiple Formula
cost-effective environment to help them raise
Wayne Stevens, Managing Director of WIX
based car care, cleaning and additive business.
Club. The BTCC’s ever-increasing following,
that attend race weekends have ensured that
1 World Champion Lewis Hamilton. One of the
their profile and credibility in the UK.
Filtration Ltd. “As a result of the impact and
on and off-track, provides an ideal platform
the GardX Protection brand has become much
world’s largest and most well-established energy
to raise the profile of our brands and gives us
more highly recognised as a household name.
drinks brands, Monster is involved in a variety of
the opportunity to deliver competitions and
That is a huge draw and solid opportunity from a
added-value experiences to our guests and
fans throughout the UK. With around three IHG
“On top of all the above, it is fun and incredibly
“In just one season, Tom has become a real
impression it created amongst our customers
“The BTCC is not only an essential part of our
exciting to be a part of it all! I see no reason why
ambassador for the RHA in particular and
Teams work closely with their partners to ensure
during the weekend and the following days, it
marketing strategy for Automotive Brands –
we will not continue to be involved in the BTCC
the haulage industry in general – and it is our
motor sport disciplines from F1 to MotoGP, with
the full potential of their involvement in the
became clearly apparent to us that we needed
Power Maxed, Steel Seal and J-B Weld – it is
for many years to come.”
association with the BTCC that has made this
sponsor’s perspective and a significant boost to
the loyal fan base and tin-top thrills synonymous
series is maximised. What’s more, the BTCC
to continue as a race team title sponsor to
key to our growth and with this in mind, it takes
our marketing efforts.
with the BTCC offering the company another
created an even bigger canvas for sponsors to
enhance the brand identity for WIX.
a lion’s share of our focus and budgets with just
A welcome newcomer to the paddock in
which will again see the RHA branding in front
outlet and demographic for its popular product.
display their logos by transferring race numbers
reasoning,” he remarked.
2015 was the Road Haulage Association
of millions of television viewers and, of course,
(RHA), the trade association of choice for road
the thousands of potential truck drivers we so
desperately need.”
hotels close to each BTCC round, the events
30
“
The BTCC’s ever-increasing
following provides an ideal
platform to raise the profile
of our brands and gives us the
opportunity to deliver added
-value experiences to our guests
and fans throughout the UK.
also provide our hotels with a perfect showcase
“The BTCC events have enabled us to bring a
to host teams, drivers, officials and fans in a
number of clients along to the racing, allowing
relaxed and friendly environment.”
possible. We’re already looking forward to 2016,
– traditionally on front doors – to the side
“The sponsorship for WIX delivers a perfect
Pirtek is a market leader in fluid transfer
windows to free up even greater ‘real estate’ on
balance of value, hospitality experience and
“With huge TV reach, an excellent social
transport and freight logistics operators. Its logo
them to get up close to the action and also the
solutions and on-site repairs. Specialising in
the side of each car.
high-level brand exposure both on and off-track.
media following and unrivalled B2B corporate
adorned the side of Tom Ingram’s Speedworks
drivers themselves. This provides them with a
hydraulic hoses, pipe fittings & couplings, Pirtek
It is critical you have the right team partnership
hospitality – helping us strengthen our
Motorsport Toyota Avensis, and the 22-year-old
Fittingly, in the year that marked the 75th
Defending title-holders West Surrey Racing ran
really special and memorable experience and
Europe has service centres and mobile teams
One of the most striking cars on the 2015 BTCC
and you use what is available to you to maximise
relationships with trade customers and display
even climbed behind the wheel of a 44-tonne
anniversary of the Battle of Britain, the BTCC
a three-strong stable of BMWs in 2015, with
is a fantastic element to help us foster and
working in Belgium, Germany, Ireland, the
grid was the WIX Racing Mercedes A-Class,
the impression, but I personally believe there
our consumer advertising at the same time – we
articulated truck for a video comparison test in
saw an influx of ex-military personnel. Fielding
Priaulx’s car accompanied by the two JCT600
maintain strong relationships. What’s more,
Netherlands and the UK. Having been a loyal
which was a regular podium contender in the
is no better motor sport platform in the UK to
meet so many of our strategic objectives in one
conjunction with Dunlop.
the new Infiniti Q50, ‘Support Our Paras Racing’
and GardX Protection-backed entries of Rob
the fact that this is motor sport falls fully in-line
long-term supporter of 2013 BTCC Champion
hands of Adam Morgan and created plenty of
achieve the best returns. We are very much
go and really maximise our ROI.
Collard and Sam Tordoff. GardX Protection
with our client base as a company within the
Andrew Jordan, in 2015 the brand followed ‘AJ’
headlines along the way, attracting admiring
looking forward to the 2016 season, as are
is a leading supplier of exterior and interior
automotive industry. Overall, we are extremely
to MG Triple Eight Racing and has subsequently
glances at race meetings and beyond. Like
many of our customers.”
vehicle protection systems, and with the team
pleased with our BTCC involvement; it has
pledged its commitment to the championship
many of the ultra-professional teams competing
using its products and services throughout the
proven to be exciting, fast-paced and most of
for a further three years.
in the series, WIX has a fully liveried road-
season, GardX Protection Managing Director
all, ‘proper motor racing’.”
was set up with the objective of assisting the
“The UK haulage sector is currently facing
rehabilitation of injured former paratroopers
“The BTCC delivers a strong, nationwide
a massive driver shortage”, said RHA chief
and arrived in the championship in a blaze of
multi-demographic audience, perfect for any
executive Richard Burnett. “What better way
publicity. Meanwhile, Josh Cook’s Power Maxed
Having entered the BTCC in 2014, Power
major consumer brand like ourselves to build
to raise the industry’s profile than to sponsor
Racing Chevrolet ran in partnership with Help
going version of its race car, and it has visited
Maxed significantly stepped up its involvement
awareness. Moreover, the championship actively
a professional racing driver? We decided to
For Heroes, the foundation that supports injured
Victor Coutin reflects that the BTCC is the ideal
numerous locations around the country showing
in 2015 by purchasing a team and expanding
encourages brand activation and engagement
put Tom through the rigorous training process
servicemen and women.
platform from which to demonstrate the success
off the investment made by the team’s sponsors
to a two-car operation, fielding cars for proven
with its fans, with trackside attendances
needed to become a fully-qualified truck driver.
and effectiveness of its products.
and backers.
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2016 D UNLOP MS A
“
There’s a reason why the BTCC
is the success story it is:
it’s high drama, it’s high-profile...
and it delivers.
”
J i m McG i l l
Op e r a t i o n s & M e d i a D i r e ct o r
S u pp o r t O u r P a r a s R a c i n g
“One of the core facets of entering the BTCC in
there’s a reason why the BTCC is the success
2015 was to raise awareness of The Parachute
story it is: it’s high drama, it’s high-profile... and
Regiment and its official charity, Support Our
it delivers.”
Paras,” revealed Jim McGill, Operations &
Media Director for Support Our Paras Racing.
Beyond its comprehensive ITV4 coverage,
“Without question, this has been achieved – and
the BTCC has strong ties to numerous other
that achievement has been recognised not only
primetime TV shows, and its teams and drivers
in the paddock and by the public, but also at
often feature in front of fresh new audiences.
the highest levels of the British Army.
A piece on the hugely popular ITV show Ant
and Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway was built
“The key to that success is the huge attendance
around a BTCC race meeting. The field took
of knowledgeable, supportive motor sport
to the Brands Hatch circuit to contest a mock
fans allied to the incredible, cohesive media
race with a granny in a Mazda people carrier
exposure on ITV4, online and on social
– which was not only a fun change of scenery
media platforms. There is no other domestic
for the drivers, but also gave a huge number of
championship in Europe that delivers the
sponsors exposure on one of the most watched
volume of quality media coverage the BTCC
programmes around. Drivers have also featured
attains, which fuels its attraction to existing
on BBC’s The One Show, further extending the
sponsors and potential new partners.
reach of championship partners to millions of
potential customers.
“One key opportunity the BTCC offers is the
32
ability to host guests — both corporate and
Ultimately, there is a myriad of commercial
public — in hospitality, giving them the unique
opportunities both at and away from race
‘money-can’t-buy’ VIP experience and allowing
events. With such a successful track record
them exclusive, up-close interaction with the
when it comes to delivering results, the BTCC’s
team. It’s the perfect platform for business-to-
profile and pole position pedigree cannot be
business networking opportunities. Ultimately,
ignored by proactive brands.
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2016 D UNLOP MS A
HOSPITALITY
FIVE
STAR
TREATMENT
The high-profile, high-drama, big-crowd
“On race weekends, it truly is a buzzing hive
backdrop of the BTCC makes it the perfect
of activity, offering our guests, sponsors and
platform for teams and sponsors to entertain
franchisees the full motor sport experience. The
guests, so it’s no surprise that a wealth of far-
accessible nature of the BTCC is a major draw,
reaching corporate activities is available to cater
with ‘added value’ activities such as pit garage
for all tastes and budgets.
tours and grid walks never failing to put smiles
on faces.
Moreover, with so many key decision makers
maximising the BTCC’s enormous potential, the
“Guests are able to get up close to the cars and
paddock is a hive of networking and business-
chat to our drivers, and the feedback we receive
to-business opportunities. It’s also the perfect
after every event is all the affirmation we need.
environment for companies to strengthen
The BTCC is pure entertainment and if there is
commercial ties with existing partners and
anything out there that offers a better return on
increase staff morale.
investment, we have yet to find it.”
Pirtek Racing’s two-storey, smoked-glass
Race-winning driver Jack Goff is another that
hospitality suite is similar to those seen in
points to the BTCC’s hospitality opportunities as
Formula 1 and MotoGP. Capable of hosting
a key draw for his backers. “It’s no secret that I
up to 200 guests each race weekend, this
wouldn’t be on the grid without the loyal support
eye-catching structure acts as a welcoming
of my many sponsors, and they have stuck
home-from-home for the team’s guests.
around not only because they believe in me, but
also because they all receive a genuine benefit
“Our hospitality unit was the talk of the paddock
from being a part of the BTCC.
when we brought it into the BTCC,” says Pirtek’s
Marketing Manager Tammie Argent-Peters.
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2016 D UNLOP MS A
“
On race weekends, it truly is
a buzzing hive of activity,
offering our guests, sponsors
and franchisEes the full
motor sport experience.
”
T a m m i e A r g e n t- P e t e r s
Marketing Manager, Pirtek
“Being able to invite them along to watch
hospitality suites that can be rented for the
Typically, major manufacturers such as Honda,
The manufacturer-backed Honda Yuasa Racing
me race is my way of saying ‘thank you’, and
weekend, providing businesses with the
MG and Porsche and big-name sponsors prefer
squad and other major BTCC teams such as
it’s fantastic to walk into our hospitality unit
ideal opportunity to host clients and reward
to welcome guests into their own strongly-
Team IHG Rewards Club, WIX Racing and
and see just how much they are enjoying
employees in purpose-built surroundings.
branded bespoke structures and dedicated
many more have been active in integrating their
hospitality units – and every team is getting in on
BTCC participation with corporate enrichment
the whole experience. Every company has
its own individual agenda and each takes
“Corporate entertainment is a key aspect of our
the hospitality act by bringing their own units to
activities, utilising their highly professional
something different from their involvement in
BTCC involvement,” revealed Lucy Austin, Team
entertain sponsors. Furthermore, live television
hospitality set-ups on race weekends and often
the championship… many of my sponsors have
Manager of Rob Austin Racing. “Rob is regularly
feeds ensure that nobody misses any of the
extending their time at circuits to invite guests
actually discovered mutual B2B opportunities
voted as one of the most popular drivers in the
bumper to bumper thrills on the race track.
and business partners to special track
through race weekend networking and
championship, and one of the products of that
relationship building.”
popularity is that we are always oversubscribed
These hospitality ‘villages’ – often situated
when it comes to hospitality requests.
right at the heart of the paddock – offers
Whatever your particular requirements, the
guests the best possible seats in the house,
high-flying BTCC offers organisations of all sizes
The BTCC’s pedigree and huge nationwide
day experiences.
TV coverage means it enjoys an enviable
“When our guests attend a race meeting, they
bringing the luxuries of a VIP experience
unrivalled opportunities, as well as the very real
status among the UK’s elite sports. This
want more than just to watch the on-track action
without detracting from the raw excitement of
promise of an exhilarating taste of life in the
elevated standing gives each race meeting a
– they want the whole VIP experience, and that
the sport. Moreover, the busy BTCC timetable
fast lane.
real prominence and true sense of occasion,
is what we deliver. They want to meet the drivers,
is specifically organised to allow drivers and
enabling hosts to take the ‘wining and dining’ of
touch the car, be shown round by team members
key team management time to make personal
VIP guests to new levels. Furthermore, the BTCC
– and, of course, they want a comfortable and
appearances during the day’s racing, providing
provides its teams and commercial partners with
welcoming environment in which to relax and
an extra dimension and insight into these
an opportunity to invite guests from across the
breathe in the high-octane atmosphere.
important corporate activities.
sees the series headlining at circuits the length
“That’s where the BTCC scores so heavily,
“We attended the Silverstone weekend and had
and breadth of Britain.
with its non-stop race day action perfectly
a blast,” said Honda Yuasa Racing guest Stevie
complemented by enough off-track activities to
Sparshott. “We were very privileged to be in the
Each individual track has its own unique style
please die-hard fans and motor sport ‘rookies’
pit garage during qualifying, which was tense
and feel, and offers a full range of facilities
alike. It is, quite simply, a first-class corporate
and very emotional. What an experience!”
for fans and guests. Many have permanent
day out.”
UK, thanks to a careful selection of venues that
36
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2016 D UNLOP MS A
S P EC TATO R
W hat
a
AP P E AL
weekend
The BTCC has firmly established itself as the
One of the key policies for the BTCC is its ‘open
pinnacle of British motor racing and by far the
paddock’, which operates at the vast majority of
most popular race series in the UK. Not only
the circuits on the calendar. Official autograph
that, it is one of the UK’s top sporting attractions
sessions and other events organised by teams
outright, with crowd numbers that go toe-to-toe
and sponsors provide fans with a unique level
with some of those seen in football’s Premier
of access and the chance to meet, chat to and
League.
perhaps take a selfie with their favourite drivers.
All this adds up to an unmissable weekend of
The series continues to strengthen, with
action, with ticket sales reflecting this success.
trackside attendances up for an 11th
consecutive season – attracted by the quality
“It was a fantastic crowd – the best seen here in
and quantity of the entry list of the UK’s biggest
a very long time – and they enjoyed magnificent
and best championship at the UK’s most
summer weather, as well of course as some
exciting circuits. An impressive capacity 32-car
superb racing,” enthused Croft Circuit Manager
grid is undoubtedly an indicator of touring car
Mike Cantelo following the 2015 event. “It’s
racing’s current golden age, with the series’
testament to the appeal of the BTCC and a great
huge commercial appeal and ever-growing fan
reward for everyone involved who puts in so
base the major draws to prospective entrants.
much effort.”
Over the course of a BTCC weekend, supporters
Over the years the championship has hosted a
are offered an experience that is unrivalled
series of city centre displays across the Britain
in motor sport, with a host of initiatives to get
in major conurbations such as Newcastle,
them closer to the teams and their heroes –
Milton Keynes and Edinburgh. Road closures in
encouraging a level of interaction between the
the Scottish capital enabled drivers and teams
public and the series’ stars that is certainly a
to showcase their machinery at full speed and in
rarity among other major sports.
close quarters to spectators gathered roadside,
running past the city’s iconic castle.
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2016 D UNLOP MS A
“
I’ve always loved watching the
championship, so it’s like a dream
come true to have been able to
actually ‘race’ one of the Power
Maxed Racing cars around
Oulton Park.
Pa u l H o l ly w o o d
G r e a t B r i t i sh B a k e O f f
”
The Forth Road Bridge was also temporarily
Football legends Paul Merson, of Arsenal fame
Britain’s most prolific Olympian, winner of six
commandeered by the BTCC in 2015, as teams
and Scotland manager Gordon Strachan –
gold medals Sir Chris Hoy MBE, fellow cyclists
proudly paraded across en route to the series’
former Leeds United title-winning captain and
Ed Clancy and Alex Dowsett, gymnast Beth
annual visit to Fife’s Knockhill circuit. This
Manchester United player – have recently been
Tweddle and sprinter Derek Redmond – all gold
formed part of a co-operative effort with the
to Thruxton over the BTCC weekend. From the
medallists at either the World Championships,
Scottish government to promote Road Safety
world of showbusiness we have seen BBC Radio
Commonwealth or Olympic Games – have
Scotland’s ‘Race on the Track, Stay Safe on the
2 presenter Chris Evans, Great British Bake
likewise frequented the paddock.
Road’ initiative.
Off host Paul Hollywood and celebrity TV chefs
James Martin and Tom Kerridge. Hollywood
The Pit Lane Walkabout sessions organised by
All of the displays organised by the BTCC
even got the chance to drive a BTCC car in
the BTCC extend an invite to fans of all ages
are free for the public and make for a dream
2015 as he took part in several high-speed
to meet the drivers for autographs and photos.
marketing opportunity for teams and sponsors
demonstrations at the hugely popular CarFest,
All manner of team merchandise and products
alike. With the championship’s obsessive
which attracted some 70,000 fans.
from the championship’s sponsors are handed
out to supporters, ranging from caps, pens and
attention to detail and expertise in planning
and promotion, the spectacular events have
“I’ve always loved watching the championship,
posters to stickers and autograph cards for
each tapped into a large new pool of fans. For
so it’s like a dream come true to have been
the drivers to sign. The teams have perfected
example, Edinburgh city council estimated that
able to actually ‘race’ one of the Power Maxed
the art of using the sessions to suit their own
over 18,000 people lined Johnston Terrace to
Racing cars around Oulton Park.” enthused
promotional requirements and for the benefit
take in the sights and sounds of the BTCC’s
Hollywood. “It was a little taste of what it’s
of their commercial partners – it is a peerless
stars in action at close range.
like on the other side of the fence, and it’s
chance for them to ensure their sponsors’
incredible!”
colours are the ones decorating grandstands
and painting spectator banks.
The championship’s status as the leading motor
sport series in the country means it attracts a
Current F1 World Champion Lewis Hamilton and
number of high-profile celebrities and industry
former F1 stars Paul di Resta and Max Chilton
personalities to its events. Those spotted
have all taken time out of their busy schedules
recently include a mixture of showbiz and
to visit the BTCC paddock. Former champions
sporting stars.
Damon Hill, Jody Scheckter and Emerson
Fittipaldi have also been in attendance.
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2016 D UNLOP MS A
“
It was a fantastic crowd – the best
seen here in a very long time – and
they enjoyed magnificent summer
weather, as well of course as
some superb racing.
Mike Cantelo
Croft Circuit Manager
”
Every team in the pit lane, from the more
The enduring success of the championship is
established outfits to the smaller one-car
a simple formula: providing the best sport and
newcomers, realises that the BTCC offers
entertainment at prices people can afford. The
an incomparable opportunity to capture the
BTCC is a fast-paced show designed to compete
attention of some of the world’s most dedicated
against theme parks and shopping centres just
and ardent sporting audiences.
as much as it competes against other sports for
the public’s leisure time over increasingly
Loyalty has long been one of the key traits of
busy weekends.
BTCC spectators and these unique initiatives
illustrate the championship’s strength in
The championship follows through on those
creating, maintaining and rewarding that
ideals of delivering unrivalled value for money
loyalty with outstanding experiences. Exit
entertainment – particularly for families. Race
polls conducted by independent surveyors
day admission for children up to 16 is free at
indicated that a remarkable 95 per cent of those
many venues, whilst race day tickets for adults
interviewed would attend again while those who
can be pre-ordered for as little as £20.
said they would recommend BTCC race events
to their friends stood at a similarly impressive
The BTCC’s continued commitment to co-
85 percent. Survey data also confirmed far
ordinating pre-event and on-event promotion
higher than average levels of sponsorship recall,
alongside each of the championship’s circuit
with a majority expressing loyalty to brands
partners mean the upwardly mobile nature of
and products promoted via the championship
the series’ popularity is certain to continue.
and its teams. Such is the modern world and
popularity of the championship’s social media
feeds that its accounts are often flooded with
positive comments from fans who have been in
attendance at race events.
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2016 D UNLOP MS A
2 0 1 5 B T CC G l o b a l T e l e v i s i o n C o v e r a g e
USA /Canada
The British Touring Car Championship has
Portugal
Thailand
60,000,000 650,000
captivated fans since 1958, with only Formula
1 and NASCAR boasting longer racing histories.
The BTCC has long been a staple in the global
Homes
Network: CBS Sports Network
Transmissions: x20
motor sport calendar, renowned as one of
the best-loved and illustrious motor racing
championships on earth.
T o t a l UK T V A u d i e n c e *
19,500,000
Homes
Network: Sport TV
Transmissions: x30
Homes
Network: Grand Prix
Transmissions: x30
M E D I A
S P EC TATO R
DATA
2009
2011
1,000,000
52-minute international
highlight programmes
from all ten BTCC rounds
&
Homes
Network: Speed
Transmissions: x30
Pl a n e t S p e e d (23 minutes)
MAX POWER (52 minutes)
Country
Country
Network
Angola
Bangladesh
Brunei
China
Hong Kong
India
Indonesia
Korea
Malaysia
Nepal
Pakistan
Philippines
Qatar
Singapore
South East Asia*
Spanish America
Sri Lanka
Taiwan
Thailand
UK & Eire
Vietnam
TV Zimbo
Star Sports India
Star Sports Malaysia
Star Sports Asia
Star Sports HK
Star Sports India
Star Sports SEA
Star Sports SEA
Star Sports Malaysia
Star Sports India
Star Sports India
Star Sports SEA
Al Dawri & Al Kass
Star Sports SEA
Star Sports SEA
Somos TV
Star Sports Star Sports Taiwan
Star Sports SEA
Sky Sports
Star Sports SEA
Network
Transmissions Africa*
ESPN Africa
Australia
ESPN, ESPN HD
Bangladesh
ESPN India
Brazil
ESPN
Brunei
Fox Sports Asia
Canada
ESPN, TSN
Caribbean **
ESPN/ESPN2
China
ESPN China
Central America***
ESPNDos
Hong Kong
Fox Sports Asia
India
ESPN India
Indonesia
Fox Sports Asia
Israel
ESPN
Korea
Fox Sports Asia
Latin America****
ESPN+
Latin America (north)***** ESPN
Latin America (south)****** ESPN Malaysia
Fox Sports Asia
Mexico
ESPNDos
Middle East*******
ESPN Middle East
Nepal
ESPN India
Pacific Rim******** ESPN Pacific Rim
Pakistan
ESPN India
Philippines
Fox Sports Asia Singapore
Fox Sports Asia
South America********* ESPN Andina
South East Asia********** Fox Sports Asia
Sri Lanka
ESPN India
Taiwan
Fox Sports Asia
Thailand
Fox Sports Asia
UK & Eire
ESPN UK
Vietnam
Fox Sports Asia
44
Homes †
20 1,700,000
30 1,788,160
50 804,00
303,847,973
70 28,073
70 12,503,400
30 1,077,830
70 115,120,000
30 3,065,025
70 889,404
50 31,967,000
30 450,000
201,451,000
30 14,500,000
30 6,320,287
20 8,697,526
20 11,183,336
70 1,670,392
306,011,394
30 1,260,000
50 150,000
20 646,030
50 1,300,000
40 944,984
70
150,000
30 4,154,130
70 108,381
30 60,000
30 6,035,000
70 417,593
20 1,000,000
70 1,488,201
Motor sport Mu ndi al (23 minutes)
Transmissions
30
30
20
40
20
30
60
20
20
30
30
20
20
20
20
20
30
40
20
50
20
Homes †
6,000,000
804,000
28,073
115,120,000
889,404
31,967,000
450,000
4,000,000
1,616252
150,000
1,300,000
944,984
357,144
150,000
111,062
200,000
60,000
6,035,000
379,525
10,000,000
1,583,002
Country
Network
Transmissions Africa*
Asia (incl. India)
Australia
Balkans**
Italy
Middle East
Qatar
Russia
Singapore
South Africa
Thailand
UK & Eire
USA
Zuku
TEN Sports
Speed
TV Arena
Dinamica
Al Jazeera
Al Dawri/Al Kass Sport
Auto Plus
Starhub
Ignition TV
Tru Visions
Channel 5
Speed2
Homes †
5012,000
20
100,000,000
301,000,000
20
1,000,000
50TBC
20
25,000,000
30
357,144
30
500,000
20530,000
20
500,000
10
15,400,000
20
17,500,000
2055,000,000
(*Burundi, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Malawi, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, Sudan)
(** Serbia, Bosnia and Montenegro)
(* Cambodia, Macau, Myanmar, Papua New Guinea)
*Angola, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Comores, Congo, Cote d’Ivoire, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Gabon, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea Bissau, Kenya, Lesotho,
Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mauritius, Mayotte, Mozambique, Namibia, Niger, Nigeria, Reunion, Rwanda, Sao Tome & Principe, Senegal, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, South Africa, St. Helena, Swaziland,
Tanzania/Zanzibar, The Gambia, Togo, Uganda, Western Sahara, Zambia, Zimbabwe) (** Anguilla, Antigua, Aruba, Bahamas, Barbados, Barbuda, Bermuda, Bonaire, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Curacao,
Dominica, Falkland Isles, Grenada, Guadeloupe, Haiti, Jamaica, Martinique, Montserrat, St. Barthelemy, St. Lucia, St. Maarten, St. Kitts/Nevis, Trinidad and Tobago, Turks and Caicos, Cruise Ships) (*** Costa
Rica, Curacao, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Panama, Venezuela) (**** Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay) (***** Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, French Guiana,
Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Suriname, Venezuela) (****** Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay) (******* Algeria, Bahrain, Chad, Dijibouti, Egypt, Iran,
Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Mauritania, Morocco, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Tunisia, United Arab Emirates, Yemen) (******** Micronesia, Fiji, Marshall Islands, New
Zealand, Palau) (********* Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru) (********** Cambodia, Macau, Myanmar, Papua New Guinea)
2012
2013
2014
2015
11.7 M
13.8 M
14.1 M
19.4 M
19.5 M
20.5 M
20.8 M
20.9 M
2010
Australia
2 0 1 5
2008
UK T V AIR T IME
2008
2009
2010
20.9million
86 HRS
116 HRS
109 HRS
128 HRS
229 HRS
229 HRS
229 HRS
233 HRS
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
*Cumulative sustained audience viewer hours,
weighted according to programme duration
UK TV
Audience
UK T V A i r t i m e B r e a k d o w n s
Total Number
of Hours of ITV
Coverage in 2015
233
UK R a d i o C o v e r a g e i n 2 0 1 5
Million Potential
Audience Reach
Stations
Hours
57.5
159
59
10x
ITV4 Live programmes
10x
ITV4 HD Live programmes
72:50
72:50
30:00
10x ITV4 Highlights programmes (totalling 3 hrs per round including repeats)
30:00
(totalling 3 hrs per round including repeats)
12:00
10x ITV1 Highlights programmes (totalling 1.25 hours each round)
10x ITV4 HD Highlights programmes
HRS
145
Total ITV Live
Broadcast
Hours
10x ITV4 HD Highlights programmes
HRS
12:00
(totalling 1.25 hours each round)
10x ITV4 & ITV4 HD Season Highlights
Total ITV
Highlights
Hours
Total ITV Live
& Highlights
04:00
HRS
HRS
HRS
HRS
HRS
88
233
The above does not include the ‘plus one hour’ re-broadcast
channels (ie. ITV4+1 & ITV1+1) which would add another 117.15
hours onto the total number of hours of ITV coverage.
• All TV data sourced from IFM Sports Marketing Surveys Ltd
45
2016 D UNLOP MS A
B T CC T WI T T ER
4,500
11,620
26,160
26,850
38,000
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
Followers
twitter.com/DunlopBTCC
M a n u fa c t u r e r s r e p r e s e n t e d 2 0 1 5
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
46
2010
12,550
23,000
46,000
108,000
2011
2012
2013
130,000
48,500
11,071,100
The BTCC is always a talking point on Twitter, especially over race
weekends when on-track incidents rocket to the top of the national
trending topics. With more than 10,000 new followers joining the
discussion in 2015, it’s one of the best places to keep up-to-date with
everything BTCC.
2009
w w w. b t c c . n e t
B T CC FACEBOOK
13 models from 11 marques were represented in 2015,
with new additions expected for the 2016 season.
5
7
10
9
11
11
11
2014
Likes
Monthly Impressions
The Official BTCC Facebook page has seen a 175% increase over
a two-year period, and with monthly total impressions – the number of
times any content associated with the page was seen – exceeding
10 million per month, it’s one of our most valuable tools to
reach our fans.
facebook.com/OfficialBTCC
ONLINE
Interviews
Podcasts
Downloads
Official BTCC iTunes page downloads in 2015
688
507
2.1m
2009
ITV Sport Figures
77,100
110,000
141,300
194,000
162,300
186,000
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
Unique Monthly
Visitors
Website
per month
per month
31,531,729
per month
H ay m a r k e t M e d i a G r o u p
Publishing Figures
Title
per month
199,068
2015 saw a new record peak number of unique visitors, with just under
200,000 different people visiting the site in a single month. With
the recent upgrade to btcc.net, the increase in traffic throughout the
season compared to previous years reflects a big step forward made in
functionality and compatibility.
Magazine annual circulation
Autocar
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
Attendance
310,000
320,000
366,000
371,000
373,000
378,000
382,000
Trackside spectator numbers grew for the twelfth consecutive year in 2015.
Totals are cumulative three-day attendance at all ten BTCC meetings.
1,964,716
759,648
What Car?
T r a c k s i d e Att e n d a n c e
2009
Unique annual vistors
ITV Sport
per month
per month
S p e c tat o r S u r v e y
Average number of
Unique annual visitors
autocar.co.uk
22,419,024
27,540,204
49,968,384
whatcar.com
pistonheads.com
Female Under 35
35 or over
1.86
1.41
1.63
1.85
bought merchandise
44%
33%
42%
41%
events attended in 2015
Percentage who have
Top five aspects enjoyedRacing
41%Racing
32%Racing 43%Racing
17%Atmosphere20%Atmosphere
Good day out
12%Weather
15% Good day out 13%Weather
Food & Drink
9% Good day out
9%Weather 9% Good day out
Weather
8% Food & Drink
7% Food & Drink 5% Food & Drink
35%
20%
14%
11%
8%
Five aspects theNothing
42%Nothing
42%
14%
most during the dayAtmosphere
24%Atmosphere
40%Nothing 43%Nothing
public dislikedCrowds/queues
14%Crowds/queues17%Crowds/queues
12%Crowds/queues
Travelling
10%Travelling
15%Travelling
Quality of food
Toilet queues
8%
6%
Quality of food
Toilet queues
Social classAB
40%AB
C1
50%C1
C2
7%C2
DE
3%DE
Website
Male 1%
3%
£20,000 - £24,999 3%
£25,000 - £29,999 8%
£30,000 - £34,999 14%
£35,000 - £44,999 22%
£45,000 - £54,999 21%
£55,000 - £64,999 12%
£65,000 or over
16%
Personal income
under £15,000
£15,000 - £19,999
10%Travelling
7% Quality of food
6% Toilet queues
Quality of food
Toilet queues
10%
9%
5%
25%AB
60%C1
5%C2
10%DE
24%AB
55%C1
15%C2
6%DE
50%
44%
3%
3%
0%
1%
3%
12%
16%
27%
18%
11%
12%
1%
1%
8%
13%
17%
25%
12%
11%
12%
0%
1%
3%
9%
17%
24%
20%
10%
16%
52% Formula 1 69% Formula 1
46%Football 67%Football
Rugby
29%Football
45%Athletics 23%Cricket
76%
68%
51%
26% Daily Mail
26% The Sun
21% The Times
13% Daily Mail
Telegraph
9%Express
12%Express
28%
20%
7%
Top three other sports
Formula 1
75%
7%
7%
Formula 1
watched on TVFootball
71%Tennis
Top three national
The Sun
papers read
Daily Mail
Research carried out by Repucom
31% Daily Mail
14%Telegraph
9% The Sun
47
2016 D UNLOP MS A
S U P PORT
RAC E S
N urturing
ne x t
the
generation
The high-profile BTCC events provide a
in the UK, and the 2015 campaign witnessed a
driver talent and entertain guests,” said
full weekend of virtually non-stop on-track
thrilling four-way title tussle that went right down
Renault UK Communications Director Jeremy
entertainment as it makes its way around the
to the wire.
Townsend. “Each event has the crowds, the live
country. Each of the ten events features not only
ITV exposure, the profile, the hype, fantastic
three bill-topping BTCC races, but also the very
The Clio Cup is part of a hugely successful line
credibility and a real sense of a major sporting
best of UK single-seater, saloon and sportscar
of showroom-model championships run by
occasion. Nothing else comes even remotely
racing. The packed two-day programme usually
Renault UK that dates back to the early 1970s,
close in British motor sport.”
includes up to 12 races, guaranteeing fans a
when leaning 5TLs and TSs wowed the crowds
feast of top-class top value motor racing action.
with big grids and crazy antics. The Clio Cup
Ginetta’s entry-level Junior Championship
has carried on that tradition with teams and
enjoyed a spectacular 2015 season, with
There are five specially-selected championships
drivers eager to get their hands on the cost-
capacity grids jam-packed full of the touring car
on the regular BTCC supporting bill, each one
effective, identical racing versions of Renault’s
and sportscar stars of tomorrow.
adding variety and further thrills. Two of the
potent turbo-charged model.
world’s biggest mass vehicle producers – Ford
Created for drivers aged 14-to-17, the Ginetta
and Renault – and legendary supercar maker
It’s the perfect proving ground for aspiring BTCC
Junior Championship been a major hit since
Porsche provide three of those championships,
drivers and has produced many of today’s top
it joined the ‘BTCC family’ in 2008, providing
while the other two come from flourishing British
touring car stars, including Andrew Jordan, Mat
plenty of drama as the youngsters battle
sportscar marque Ginetta. All five series are
Jackson, Sam Tordoff, Aron Smith, Jack Goff,
it out for supremacy in the company’s stylish,
fully manufacturer-supported, thus ensuring
Dave Newsham, Josh Cook and Mike Bushell.
five-speed 1.8-litre G40 model. Further up the
that levels of professionalism and excitement for
Indeed, at Snetterton at the height of mid-
ladder, meanwhile, the Yorkshire carmaker’s
crowds are unrivalled by any other motor sport
summer, more than half of the BTCC grid was
more powerful Michelin Ginetta GT4 Supercup
experience in the UK.
composed of former Renaultsport racers.
similarly provides a level playing field for more
Renaultsport showcased a brand new model
“The BTCC is the only arena in which Renault
and Tom Ingram proving the series’ value as a
on the BTCC package in 2014 when the latest
UK would want its Clio Cup championship to
stepping stone by successfully graduating
turbo-charged Renault Clio Cup racer arrived
appear to showcase our brand, technologies,
to the BTCC in recent seasons.
experienced protagonists, with Adam Morgan
48
49
2016 D UNLOP MS A
“
The BTCC is the only arena in
which Renault UK would want
its Clio Cup championship to
appear to showcase our brand,
technologies and driver talent
and entertain guests.
Jeremy Townsend
R e n a u l t UK
C o m m u n i c a t i o n s D i r e ct o r
”
“Ginetta has undoubtedly the biggest support
The ‘ready to race’ price of a new Ford MSA
the sport. The television and media exposure
“The BTCC package is the perfect place for the
presence on the BTCC support bill,” said
Formula car came in at under £36,000
are unrivalled in British motor racing, and as a
Porsche Carrera Cup GB,” confirmed Ragnar
Ginetta Chairman Lawrence Tomlinson. “With
including a leased 1.6-litre Ford EcoBoost
means of promoting the benefits of Ford’s road-
Schulte, General Manager of Marketing,
over 50 cars at Brands Hatch for the finale in
engine, sequential paddle-shift transmission and
going EcoBoost technology, MSA Formula and
Porsche GB. “The TV exposure, media coverage
2015, we are looking forward to seeing our
data-logging system. Reasserting its status as
the TOCA package offer the perfect showcase.”
and race crowds it offers are exceptional. The
championships continue to flourish on the
Britain’s premier junior single-seater series, in its
TOCA package.”
inaugural season MSA Formula attracted a truly
Meanwhile, few companies come close to
international grid of more than 20 competitors
matching the illustrious motor sport pedigree of
“The KICK Start Energy Ginetta Junior
originating from as far afield as Romania, Brazil,
Porsche. With a record number of Le Mans 24
All five championships not only deliver the best
Championship and Michelin Ginetta GT4
India and the United States.
Hours victories behind it – including in 2015 –
possible entertainment for trackside BTCC fans,
the German sportscar brand also focuses on its
but also enjoy hitherto unprecedented levels of
Carrera Cup series in key global markets.
television exposure thanks to the live ITV4 and
SuperCup have been a firm favourite on the
overall platform really is unrivalled in British
motor racing.”
BTCC support bill for many years,” added
“We’re delighted that MSA Formula enjoyed
Ginetta Championships Manager Ashley
such a superb debut season in 2015,” said Ford
Gallagher.
Racing Senior Manager Gerard Quinn. “Not only
In the UK, only the BTCC offers Porsche a big
to the live Sunday airtime, a post-produced
were grid numbers high, but there was a real
enough arena to captivate its target audience.
highlights support race show, ‘Motorsport UK’, is
“As a manufacturer, it is crucial for Ginetta
‘cosmopolitan’ flavour to the championship
The reinvigorated Carrera Cup GB is exclusively
screened later on both ITV and ITV4 platforms,
to offer something worthwhile for all our
with drivers drawn from far and wide. That is
for racing versions of its 180mph 911 GT3 Cup
reaching a total audience of between 300,000
customers, and racers on the TOCA package
testament to MSA Formula’s standing in only its
car. 2015 witnessed big grids of the mouth-
and 500,000.
receive unrivalled media coverage, as well as
first year of existence, and moving forward, we
watering German dream machines handled by
great exposure to thousands of fans at each of
are confident that the series will continue to go
top-line drivers – many with international touring
A supporting cast in billing they may be, but
the race meetings throughout the season for
from strength-to-strength.
car, GT and single-seater experience – make
every championship is a valued part of the
for a sensational sight and sound. Porsche GB
‘BTCC family’ and each provides high levels of
“The marketing, sponsorship, hospitality and
also supports its Carrera Cup with a towering
entertainment to the watching masses.
The latest introduction to the support package in
B2B opportunities offered are second-to-none,
state-of-the-art hospitality suite, which forms
2015 was the new Ford-backed MSA Formula –
which makes for an attractive shop window for
an integral part of its high-profile marketing
certified by the FIA and designed to provide
young single-seater drivers looking to impress
programme.
young drivers with the opportunity to get on the
and stake their claim to a professional career in
themselves, the team and their sponsors.”
ITV4 HD coverage from each event. Added
ladder to Formula One but at an affordable cost.
50
51
2016 D UNLOP MS A
TO C A
L eading
A lliance
Series Director Alan Gow heads up TOCA, which
is widely recognised as a world leading motor
sport organisation.
TOCA was formed to take over the running of
the BTCC in 1992, and it continues to set new
standards for sports administration, marketing
and promotion of motor sport in the UK.
With this proven track record, the highly
respected TOCA team has the experience and
Alan Gow
Administrator &
Series Director
Ian Watson
Race Director
Dennis Carter
Race Director
Jeff Allam
Driving Standards
Advisor
Peter Riches
Technical Director
Dan Mayo
Championship
Co-Ordinator
Simon Melluish
Media Officer
Dr Paul Trafford
Medical Director
MPA Creative, High Barn
Effingham,
Surrey KT24 5PR
Telephone:
+44 (0) 1372 414120
Mobile:
+44 (0) 7590 683299
Email:
[email protected]
7 Victoria Circus
Dowanhill, Glasgow
G12 9LB
Facsimile:
+44 (0) 141 404 2624
Mobile:
+44 (0) 7785 557470
Email:
[email protected]
ability to deliver on all fronts. The organisational
structure includes experts in a wide range of
different specialist disciplines, each and every
one of them totally dedicated to the overall
success of the BTCC.
The Willows Low Common
Deopham, Norfolk
NR18 9DZ
Telephone:
+44 (0) 1953 797169
Mobile:
+44 (0) 7916 126448
Email:
[email protected]
52
17 White House Grove
Elvington, York Y041 4AL
Telephone:
+44 (0) 1904 607320
Mobile:
+44 (0) 7960 039758
Email:
[email protected]

1 - BTCC

Transcription

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