TOCA has announced that an all-new Junior Championship will join the British Touring Car Championship from 2027, with cars being designed, developed and built by Power Maxed Racing.
The news comes after TOCA set aside its contact with the organisers of the previously-proposed TOCA Junior Championship at the end of July.
Following a review of the expressions of interest, TOCA has now announced that it will be working with Power Maxed Racing on the championship, which is set to join the BTCC bill from the 2027 season.
TOCA has been seeking a new support series since the 2023 season, after Ginetta took its two series which had previously run on the BTCC ticket over to support British GTs.
The full specifications of the new Power Maxed Motorsport-designed bespoke car will be released over the coming months, along with details of the championship and its official name. The series has already received outline approval from governing body MSUK, subject to the normal final ratification process.
The series will be open to junior drivers from the age of 14, with cars designed and built to significantly exceed the “stringent safety standards”.
Power Maxed Motorsport’s involvement in the project is unaffected by its recent devastating fire, as the Junior Programme was always going to be based off-site in a completely separate facility.
The company is in the final design process of the car ahead of a thorough test and build programme next year.
“We are pleased to announce the introduction of a dedicated Junior championship within the BTCC package, commencing in 2027,” said BTCC Chief Executive Alan Gow.
“Having received expressions of interest it was clear that Power Maxed Racing were best placed to independently develop, build and supply the bespoke car for this exciting new championship.
“We look forward to sharing these plans as the programme progresses. We remain committed to creating the ideal and highest profile stepping stone for emerging talent and supporting the UK’s ongoing legacy of producing top level racing drivers.”
Adam Weaver, Power Maxed Managing Director, is confident his organisation can deliver what TOCA requires for its new championship
“This is fantastic news, and we are proud to be producing a bespoke car for a new Junior championship on the TOCA package from 2027,” added Weaver.
“Having been closely involved in all levels of British motorsport, we know what is needed for a successful Junior programme and PMR obviously possess the high-level of design and engineering expertise to build an outstanding car.
“This marks the early phases of this exciting development as shown by this initial render image of the car, and we look forward to sharing further information and updates with interested parties and the public in the coming weeks and months.”