![Josh Cook, Toyota Gazoo Racing UK [Speedworks Motorsport], Toyota Corolla GR Sport NGTC](https://www.touringcars.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Josh-Cook.jpg "Photo: Jakob Ebrey Photography")
Josh Cook will spearhead Speedworks Motorsport’s assault on the 2026 British Touring Car Championship, partnering with Max Buxton under the ‘Speedworks Corolla Racing’ banner.
With Speedworks signed a deal with MB Motorsport to run a pair of Corollas under the ‘Laser Tools Racing’ banner for Gordon Shedden and Árón Taylor-Smith in 2026, the final two seats in the outfit’s satellite team have now been confirmed.
It means the Cheshire-based squad retains an unchanged driver line-up from the second half of the 2025 season, when it ran under the ‘Toyota Gazoo Racing UK’ banner.
Cook impressed on his return to the team from Donington Park onwards, culminating in victory in the final race of the season at Brands Hatch.
Buxton joined the team for the second half of the year, steadily improving in pace and consistency, although he ultimately failed to improve on a best result of 12th, scored in his début weekend at Croft.
“We’re absolutely delighted to confirm Josh and Max as our driver line-up for 2026 in our two Toyota Corolla GR Sport cars,” said Team Principal Christian Dick.
“Josh needs little introduction. He’s a proven winner in the BTCC and demonstrated that perfectly by taking victory in the final race of 2025 with us.
“He will undoubtedly be one to watch this season, and his experience will be a huge asset as we push for consistent podiums and race wins.
“Max showed tremendous potential last season and proved that he belongs at this level. With a full season ahead of him and continuity within the team, we expect him to take another significant step forward.”
Cook, a 21-time race winner in the BTCC, is hoping to consistently challenge for wins in 2026. The Bath-based racer;s last season with multiple victories came in 2024, when he was part of the Speedworks stable.
“It’s great to be back with Speedworks Corolla Racing,” said Cook. “Winning the final race of 2025 together was a brilliant way to end the year, and it showed what we’re capable of.
“The aim now is to fight at the front consistently and challenge for wins from the outset.”
Buxton, 20, is hoping to build upon the experience gained in his début year in 2025.
“I’m really pleased to be continuing with the team for 2026,” said Buxton, the son of the team’s Head of Motorsport. “Joining the BTCC midway through last year was a huge learning experience, and scoring points in my debut season gave me a lot of confidence.
“Now that I know the car, the team and the championship, the goal is to keep building and aim for regular points finishes.
“The level in the BTCC is incredibly high, but I feel I’ve laid solid foundations, and I’m fully focused on making the most of this opportunity.
“The support from Speedworks Motorsport has been fantastic, and I’m determined to repay that faith with strong, consistent performances throughout the season.”