Ashley Sutton will continue behind the wheel of a Team BMR Subaru Levorg GT for the 2018 British Touring Car Championship season as he bids to defend his title.
The former Formula Ford and Renault UK Clio Cup ace won the UK’s headline tin-top series on Finals Day at Brands Hatch in October, overcoming a stern challenge from Team BMW’s Colin Turkington to back up the Jack Sears Trophy title won in 2016 with the main prize.
In the process he claimed six race victories and finished on the podium on fifteen occasions.
The 23-year old is also expected to be in attendance at the Autosport International Show at the NEC in Birmingham this weekend as part of the BTCC’s 60th Anniversary celebrations.
“I am pleased to be back on the grid for the 2018 season with Team BMR and back behind the wheel of my championship-winning Subaru Levorg,” commented Sutton.
“Last year is going to stick with me; it was a rollercoaster of a season but one that’s going to sit well in the memory bank.
“Everyone has been asking how I will approach this year now I am going in defending my title. I won’t be changing my approach too much but just making sure I am honing in on all my defects that stood out this year to make sure I am in the best possible position come the end of the season.
“I can’t wait to get going; the boys are working hard in the workshop in preparation for what lies ahead.”
Team Principal Warren Scott underlined his delight at retaining Sutton and the team are aiming to take the fight to BMW for the Manufacturers’ stakes this term.
“We’re delighted and extremely proud that Ash will be carrying the number one on his Subaru Levorg for 2018,” said Scott.
“With Ash wrapping up the Drivers’ championship last year we will be looking to defend that title along with launching a full assault on clinching the Manufacturers’ title for Subaru as well as the Teams’ championship.”