SEAT quits BTCC

In a shock move, SEAT has announced it will abandon the BTCC at the end of the year. After winning the title in 2006 and the Team prize in 2007, the Spanish squad has decided to call time on the British tin-top series, ending five years of involvement.

The decision will leave regular drivers Jason Plato and Darren Turner without a drive in the series, following the championship finale at Brands Hatch on 21 September. It also means that Vauxhall will be the only factory-backed team to take to the grid in 2009.

SEAT Sport boss Steve Robertson explained the reasons for the withdrawal: “SEAT has enjoyed five very successful seasons in British motorsport and it is fair to say that through touring cars, the brand's image has been massively enhanced. But now it is time to emphasise SEAT's sporty and stylish image through other marketing activities”.

Also being axed is the SEAT Cupra Championship. The one-make series has been part of the BTCC bill for the past six years and has produced a raft of top-line drivers, including Rob Huff and Mat Jackson.

BTCC supremo Alan Gow expressed his sorrow at SEAT’s departure, saying: “Obviously it's disappointing. SEAT has been a fabulous competitor in the BTCC during these past five years and our many millions of fans, whether trackside or watching live on TV, will miss its team, drivers and cars. We sincerely wish it well for the future".