Ford joins the fray

The famous Ford name is set to return to the BTCC in 2009 after an absence of nearly a decade. Independent team Arena Motorsport has revealed that it will field a squad of Focus STs in next year’s championship. Although not a factory-backed effort, it will mean tin-top fans get to see the series’ most successful manufacturer back in action. Since 1959, the blue oval has won 10 championships and a total of 219 races.

Heading the driver line-up will be Tom Chilton. The 23-year-old last raced for the outfit between 2003 and 2005, claiming six victories in a Honda Civic.

Arena boss Mike Earle says the squad has a bright future. “This is an exciting opportunity for us. We aim to return to the winning ways we enjoyed in the past.”