RAC returns to its motorsports roots with BTCC

RAC, the longest established motoring organisation, is sponsoring West Surrey Racing (WSR) in the 2006 Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship (BTCC), under the name ‘Team RAC’.

The sponsorship deal represents a return to RAC’s roots in motorsports, after the organisation was involved in the initial BTCC when it was established in 1958. Team RAC is the latest in a series of activities designed to demonstrate RAC’s expertise in motoring, which includes the current advertising campaign - ‘More Know How’ - featuring real-life patrols giving motorists practical hints and tips.

Under the sponsorship, Team RAC will enter the 10 race events with two branded WSR-designed and built MG ZS cars.

Commenting on the sponsorship deal, Shaun Meadows, marketing director, RAC, said: "We are delighted to be sponsoring a team in the BTCC, which is a key event in British motorsports. Our recent advertising campaign has shown our patrols sharing advice with motorists and this deal further demonstrates how we can establish RAC as the experts on motoring."

Dick Bennetts, team principal, WSR, said; " We are extremely pleased to be working in partnership with RAC and forming what I believe will be a formidable force in the 2006 BTCC. The RAC name has been associated with British motorsport since the earliest days of the sport in this country. The MG is a race-winning car and with further development I’m confident we can build on our previous success. We are currently in negotiations with a number of experienced drivers to complete our line-up."

Commenting from BTCC, Alan Gow, BTCC series director, said; "It's great to see a household name such as RAC in the BTCC. With the WSR team and thanks to the excellent marketing opportunities the BTCC offers, I’m sure RAC will enjoy great results both on and off the track."

The Team RAC car will be unveiled on Thursday 12 January on the MIA stand at the Autosport International Show, held at the NEC, Birmingham. The Team RAC drivers are due to be announced in the next few weeks.