The MINI CHALLENGE will remain part of the British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) support package until at least 2029, with TOCA and the series confirming a new agreement yesterday.
The deal will see the MINI CHALLENGE continue to feature on the BTCC support bill for the next three seasons, maintaining its place on one of the biggest stages in British motorsport.
The series recently crowned Tom Ovenden as its Drivers’ Champion at the BTCC season finale at Brands Hatch, bringing another season of close racing to a conclusion.
(Photo: James Townley/BMM)
The agreement also secures the MINI CHALLENGE’s continued free-to-air television coverage on ITV, which benefits from its place within the wider BTCC broadcast package. ITV’s coverage of the championship has also been confirmed until at least the end of the 2029 season.
The 2027 MINI CHALLENGE calendar has yet to be confirmed, with further details expected in due course.
MINI CHALLENGE Director Andy Menzies said:
“Following an astonishing final round for the JCW class at Brands Hatch, we are delighted to confirm a new deal that will keep us on the BTCC package for at least the next three seasons.
“Competing alongside the BTCC provides an outstanding platform for our teams, drivers and partners, as well as fantastic exposure through ITV’s free-to-air coverage.
“Extending this deal provides long-term stability for the series, our teams and drivers, allowing them to invest in their programmes and plan for the future, knowing they will continue to compete on the biggest stage in British motorsport.
“We’re proud that the MINI CHALLENGE has become such a popular part of BTCC weekends, and we look forward to building on that success over the next three years.”
British Touring Car Championship Chief Executive Alan Gow added:
“The MINI CHALLENGE has established itself as a popular and valuable part of the BTCC package since our relationship began back in 2020.
“The quality of our support races remains an important part of the overall BTCC experience, adding more variety and entertainment for fans at the circuit and those watching on ITV and around the world. The MINI CHALLENGE consistently delivers excellent racing, providing a perfect example of the close competition and drama that help to make our race weekends what they are.
“We look forward to continuing our relationship with the MINI CHALLENGE over at least the next three seasons.”
