DUNLOP MSA BRITISH TOURING CAR CHAMPIONSHIP

www.btcc.net Contents

02 Welcome 04 The Championship 08 The Contenders 12 NGTC 16 2012 Calendar 18 TV & Media 24 Sponsorship & Marketing 30 Hospitality 32 Spectator Appeal 36 TV & Spectator Data 40 Support Races 44 TOCA Team & Contacts 2012 Dunlop MSA British TouRING CAR CHAMPIONSHIP

A few facts about the BTCC in 2011

35% 13% Increase in UK TV Increase in viewing figures spectator numbers

Record-equalling 18% number of makes Increase in UK TV broadcast hours First five-way title showdown Welcome Record grid sizes

Whichever way you cut it, 2011 There was a further record in 2011 Our valued title sponsor I’d like to express my sincere has been a phenomenal year for that was notable – our first five- Dunlop has a continuing deep gratitude and appreciation to the Dunlop MSA British Touring Car way title showdown at the final passion and enthusiasm for all our commercial and media Championship. round. The fact that five different this championship and we are partners, for everything they 0602 drivers in four different makes of delighted that its market share in do for the BTCC. Similarly, thank 0703 Our UK TV viewing figures rose car from four different teams all the UK has increased through its you to the many hundreds of by a staggering average of 35 had a chance of the big prize on involvement and key message of volunteer marshals and officials per cent, our UK TV airtime is up ‘Finals Day’ speaks volumes for the ‘motorsport technology for the for the excellent work they do by more than 50 per cent, our level – yet unpredictable – playing road’. Reinvigorated as a brand at our race events and also to trackside attendance numbers field that this championship and with a number of exciting our millions of fans in both the rose by a further 13 per cent and prides itself on providing. And new products in the wings, its use UK and internationally, who are our grid sizes are now at record that is exactly what’s also proving of the BTCC as a vibrant part of among the most passionate levels. Quite obviously we must be increasingly attractive to entrants its broader marketing strategy will and enthusiastic in motor sport doing something right… and their sponsors; hence our take on increased importance in anywhere in the world. record grid sizes. Eight different the coming years. For the first time in almost 20 years drivers scored wins and a further Within this brochure you can we also had ten different makes seven also scored podium results. Our broadcaster ITV’s thirst for indulge in the quite exceptional of car on our grid, largely thanks Six teams celebrated race wins the championship is seemingly story that is the BTCC. The statistics to our Next Generation Touring and five more scored outright insatiable, as it continually underline the astonishing growth Car (NGTC) regulations, which podium results as, during the explores new avenues through this fabulous championship have enabled new teams and course of the 30-race season, the which to relay the action – and continues to achieve. Quite cars to embark on the big BTCC championship lead changed in 2011 provided the BTCC with simply, no other motor sport adventure and delivered an hands an incredible 13 times… an unprecedented 128 hours championship in the UK comes exciting glimpse into the future which is another record. of scheduling on ITV4, ITV1 and remotely close to the level of direction of the championship. ITV4 HD. Just think about that TV coverage, viewer numbers, Unsurprisingly, there is now a We are, of course, blessed with figure for a moment: 128 hours spectator attendance, proliferation of existing, new and an enviable line-up of fantastic of prime scheduling on the UK’s media coverage or quality of returning teams setting about commercial and media partners. largest commercial TV network. competition. We are, by a colossal developing NGTC-spec cars for The fact they have been (and It is an absolutely astounding margin, the biggest and the 2012 and onwards, which means remain) on board for the long- commitment from ITV and is, best in the UK and for very good the BTCC’s ‘wow factor’ will step term is a reflection of all the effort by far, the broadest television reason… as will be shown in the up to yet another level. that we as the organiser, our coverage of any British motor- following pages. venues, our teams, their drivers racing series – ever. And with our and their sponsors all put into live TV audience figures increasing Best wishes for a successful 2012. making the BTCC one of the by some 35 per cent this year, its greatest shows on the road. commitment to this championship is being well and truly repaid.

Alan J Gow BTCC Series Director 2012 Dunlop MSA British TouRING CAR CHAMPIONSHIP

The Championship From strength to strength

The British Touring Car It was in the Nineties, however, Twenty years on, now with Championship is one of the best- that the BTCC truly boomed. unprecedented levels of national loved, most illustrious and famous The championship was already television coverage from ITV, that motor racing championships in beginning to grow in stature with same 2-litre formula continues 04 the world. Since its inception in regular television coverage on to provide one of motor sport’s 1958 – only Formula 1 and the the BBC’s flagship sports show, most addictive, action-packed 05 NASCAR stock car series have Grandstand. When the decision atmospheres for an audience longer histories – it has attracted was taken to make the BTCC of millions, as well as the perfect and captivated millions of fans right exclusively for 2-litre cars, it platform for teams, drivers and around the world. instantly created closer racing and sponsors to raise their profiles and attracted a host of high-profile reputations. From the start, saloon car racing manufacturers, teams and drivers was a huge success with the public, to the series. Combined with “BTCC is simply Britain’s biggest who would pack into Britain’s enhanced television coverage and and most important national racing venues to watch the top marketing genius, this made the car racing championship,” says drivers of the day compete in BTCC essential viewing for millions Jonathan Palmer, Chief Executive racing versions of their road cars throughout the UK – and many of MotorSport Vision. “Spectators at simply unbelievable speeds. It’s millions more throughout the world. love touring car racing and, with a lasting appeal that to this day a format carefully designed to continues to deliver a punch and Trackside crowd figures sometimes provide plenty of on track action, panache that no other motor reached the 40,000 mark as the BTCC attracted bigger crowds than sporting arena in the UK even calendar evolved into a major UK any other car racing across our four remotely achieves. tour with events being added in MotorSport Vision circuits in 2011. Scotland and Wales. ‘Being there’ Traditional, great British names such suddenly became fashionable. It “A strong television package is as Jaguar, Austin, Ford, Mini, Lotus, was a social event. Few other sports essential to provide the broad Sunbeam and Triumph – often with can have enjoyed such a rapid public awareness necessary to top international stars, including growth in popularity. keep major sporting events in Formula 1 drivers, at the wheel – the people’s minds, and BTCC were all winners in the first 20 years, Unsurprisingly, the manufacturers works hard and effectively with each aware of the importance of simply could not afford to miss out its extensive live ITV4 coverage,” using the BTCC to showcase their and the number taking part in the continues Palmer. “BTCC is very latest models. series grew rapidly. Alfa Romeo, successful, promotes itself strongly, Audi, BMW, Ford, Honda, Mazda, draws big crowds and will hopefully By the Eighties, the BTCC was Nissan, Peugeot, Renault, Toyota, become even more attractive to moving with the times and Vauxhall and Volvo: all realised fans, TV viewers and circuits with beginning to develop a truly the enormous marketing value future evolution.” international flavour. Mazda, Toyota of competing in the BTCC and and Alfa Romeo were the first were quick to capitalise on the Another of the BTCC’s huge draws three winners of the decade as opportunity. Every one of them is the fact that each of its race the championship continued to be has the BTCC to thank for being events offers free admission for run for several classes of car, but a part of their continued growth children, in some cases up to the the mighty Ford Sierra RS500 and in the UK today. Honda, joined by age of 16, making it hugely popular BMW M3 – dominant as the Nineties Chevrolet, continue to reap the with families and young, future fans. loomed – are probably the two rewards by fielding official ‘works’ Furthermore, the sport is unique most evocative models of teams in today’s championship, as in allowing the public to interact the period. do the likes of BMW, Ford, Proton with their heroes thanks to an open and Toyota, which each provide paddock policy at the majority customer support to teams on of events. the grid. 2012 Dunlop MSA British TouRING CAR CHAMPIONSHIP “The BTCC is the most competitive, hardest-fought premier motor racing championship in the UK. It gives drivers doing a national championship a bigger profile than those in a world championship. For the public I can easily sum it up in just three words: non-stop action.”

Matt Neal – BTCC Champion 2011, 2006 & 2005

There are also specially organised profile to launch newly-developed autograph sessions in the pit lane tyres whose construction meets that further bring sponsors’ brands tough new EU environmental to life with plenty of BTCC-themed regulations. giveaways. Once through the gate, 06 the crowds are treated to a feast In fact, with increasing global 07 of top-class motor sport – while the concerns about the environment BTCC headlines the bill there’s also these past two decades, the BTCC a selection of superb supporting has developed a set of green categories run by manufacturers credentials that tick all the right Ginetta, Porsche and Renault to boxes not only with government add to the entertainment. and automotive/motor sport industries but also with the media But it’s the bumper-to-bumper, thrill- and the watching world. In the a-minute BTCC that is of course the early Nineties it became one of the star attraction and the spectators, world’s first race series to mandate all with their favourite cars and the use of catalytic converters and drivers to support, are treated to unleaded petrol. three championship races on the day. A qualifying session on the In recent years, cars powered by Saturday decides the starting- diesel, bio-fuels and even liquefied grid order for race one. The race petroleum gas have appeared two and three starting grids are on the grid. Turbocharged engines determined by the finishing order using diesel and LPG have both of races one and two respectively. subsequently gone on to win For race three, the leading starting races and challenge for outright positions are reversed to add to title honours, further underlining the unpredictability. In addition, a the BTCC’s ability to accurately ballast system is used from race monitor, regulate and equalise to race to handicap the most the performance of different successful drivers and further ensure technologies to ensure a level a level playing field. The BTCC is playing field for all its competitors. truly geared towards providing maximum value-for-money Now comes the next exciting entertainment for its customers, chapter in the evergreen BTCC’s the fans. proud and illustrious history with its new, exclusive set of NGTC Refusing to rest on its laurels, the technical regulations that are BTCC has also evolved with the already taking the world of touring times to lead the way in embracing car racing by storm. Several of the new technologies, thereby plucky privateers pioneered the continually challenging and latest regulations in 2011 gaining improving the skills of engineers. significant results, and it’s no For example, it achieved a world surprise that proven champions first in introducing and enforcing such as Honda Racing and Triple new regulations that monitored Eight Race Engineering are now and limited the CO2 emissions of its making the switch for 2012. It is competing cars. It then pioneered already clear that this exciting new technology with title sponsor new generation of race cars will Dunlop, becoming the first race keep the championship head and series in the world to fit every race shoulders above the rest for many tyre with an RFID (radio frequency years to come. identification) microchip. Dunlop also chose the BTCC’s influential 2012 Dunlop MSA British 2012 Dunlop MSA British TouRING CAR CHAMPIONSHIP TouRING CAR CHAMPIONSHIP “BTCC is simply Britain’s biggest and most important national car racing championship.” Jonathan Palmer – Chief Executive of MotorSport Vision

The Contenders Natural-born thrillers

Undoubtedly, the BTCC is entering making a name for itself in the rewards in the BTCC are so high could have won the title – indeed, championship, having previously a new Civic about to be launched, one of the most dynamic phases of most charismatic motor racing – both on and off the track – the the championship lead changed lifted the crown with Neal while the sporting pedigree of the car will its fantastic 53-year history. Slick and championship in the UK. With every championship remains a hugely hands an unprecedented 13 times. running privately-entered Hondas in form a major part of the campaign. professional management of the race being broadcast live into living cost-effective exercise compared For the first time in history, FIVE 2005 and 2006. Honda’s long relationship with the 08 championship as well as pioneering rooms across the nation on ITV4 with other series. Big or small, every drivers went into Finals Day still in BTCC continues because it delivers new technical regulations have and ITV4 HD – followed by domestic team has a golden opportunity to Honda (UK) has great affection 09 with a chance of the crown. in terms of TV coverage, excitement led to record grid sizes, a record and global highlights – all know capture the public’s imagination for the BTCC but its participation and customer awareness, helping number of different makes being they are a part of, and helping to and engage with their audience. In the end Matt Neal achieved the extends well beyond that – it knows us to demonstrate the great represented on the grid, renewed shape, one of the world’s highest- third title of his career in his Team that success in such a competitive engineering qualities of our cars enthusiasm from teams and profile motor sport arenas. While independent squads make Dynamics-prepared factory Honda sporting arena brings many other and, of course, Honda’s inherent sponsors and an influx of new faces up the majority of the field, the Racing Team Civic – pushed all the benefits to its company, while also love of racing and winning. joining the list of established stars in The BTCC caters for every type appeal for major automotive way to the last lap of the season enabling it to proudly fly a ‘built- challenging for outright honours. of entrant, be they teams with manufacturers, world-class teams, by team-mate Gordon Shedden. in-Britain’ flag in front of a huge “It is also a great way to bring all the budget for three cars or sponsors and big-name drivers The triumph also marked the third audience. aspects of the company together. Each has been drawn to the BTCC smaller outfits fielding single-car is as strong as ever. A record TEN time that Dynamics had won the At the final race at Silverstone by its accessibility and unique level entries. Whatever their size, they different makes were represented Honda UK Managing Director Dave we invited all our staff from the playing field and each is therefore all bring the same passion and in the BTCC during 2011 and the Hodgetts comments: “The BTCC is company HQ in Slough, a large determination that make the season culminated with a record- fantastic for the Honda brand and number of our dealers and BTCC the magnetic draw it is sized 30-car grid. It was also one 2011 BTCC fact file: a great showcase for the Civic. With members of staff from the factory in today. Furthermore, because the of the most wide open in terms Swindon. Everyone had a fantastic of the number of different drivers, • 8 drivers in 6 different time and it is a great way to bring teams won races teams and cars who realistically all the different divisions of Honda • 15 drivers in 11 different teams on the podium together for a great event. The fact that we can do this many times • 11 drivers led races a year all over the country makes it • 13 drivers set fastest race laps a very attractive proposition.” • 4 drivers achieved pole position • 17 different teams (5 new) • 10 different makes of car (14 models) • 15 new drivers • 34 drivers in total 2012 Dunlop MSA British TouRING CAR CHAMPIONSHIP “The BTCC has great personalities and presentation and is a sport that also has a great deal of respect for its audience. It understands what the people want from their live sporting experience.” Steve Rider – ITV Sport Presenter

And he adds: “From a Honda Motorbase Team Manager Oliver admitted to being bowled over by perspective the Civic is the perfect Collins has no doubts as to why the reception. Austin says: “I am in model to compete in British Touring teams aspire to be a part of the awe of just how much following the Cars, as it has been born and bred BTCC. He enthuses: “It’s clearly BTCC has. It’s amazing. Standing in the UK. The new car has been one of the premier touring car on the podium for the first time 10 tested on more UK roads than any championships in the world, which 11 or seeing just how many people other Honda, and it will continue to offers so much in return for all the flood into the pit lane for the be built exclusively in Swindon.” team personnel and sponsors. autograph session… we’ve never When you look at the pedigree of experienced that before and it can Meanwhile it was another former the competition, to be considered be overwhelming.” title-winning combination that ran a part of that is extremely Neal-Dynamics-Honda closest to satisfying.” The BTCC is famed for its ability to the title in 2011, namely preparation conjure up some real ‘David vs expert RML and its 2010 Champion In all, some 17 teams and 34 drivers Goliath’ moments and a number Jason Plato, driving its factory- in ten makes and 14 different of incentives are in place to entered Silverline Chevrolet models of car contested the 2011 encourage and aid teams. Cruze. Similarly, Triple Eight Race season. Five teams were new to Engineering, with six previous the BTCC in 2012 and, of those, four There’s the reversing of the drivers’ titles to its name, was right made their break into the BTCC as leading positions on race three’s in there until the end thanks to a direct result of being able to take starting grid, thereby providing an some big results with its Vauxhall advantage of and be competitive opportunity perhaps not normally Vectra driven by rising star James with the latest Next Generation available to some teams to have Nash – who even led the standings Touring Car regulations – Dynojet their car start from the front of the outright briefly. Together he and and Speedworks each with a field, live on ITV4. There is a £200,000- Triple Eight would go on to scoop Toyota Avensis, Rob Austin Racing plus prize fund with Dunlop the Independent Drivers and Teams with two Audi A4s and Welch generously rewarding teams with trophies – special competitions Motorsport with a Proton Gen-2. tyre bonuses that alone equate within the overall championship to more than £125,000, on top of established to recognise and Eleven teams celebrated outright the BTCC’s own £75,000 prize fund, reward the efforts of private podium results. Six of them sprayed shared out across the ten rounds entrants. the victory champagne – one to reward each event’s top-three of them, a thrilled Special Tuning independent teams. But 2011 also truly saw the Racing, for the first time. Fourteen emergence of the privateer of the 17 teams also achieved Included in their championship Motorbase squad – this was only hallowed top-ten race results registration fee is a handsome its fifth season in the BTCC yet its during the season. allocation of paddock and pit Airwaves Racing-branded Ford lane passes for working team Focus was a class act in the hands Of the 34 drivers, 15 made their personnel and VIPs. All teams are of Mat Jackson. There were four debuts in the BTCC in 2011 with 25 also given the same opportunities race wins and it could have been in all scoring outright championship to participate in the BTCC’s more. As the season entered its points. Fifteen – three of them promotional activities, whether final stages, Jackson took over at newcomers to the BTCC – basked PR stunts in the build-up to race the head of the championship in outright podium glory with 25 weekends or during race day’s Pit table – a clear demonstration of in total scoring points on the final Lane Walkabout public autograph how a determined, astute and overall championship table. sessions. well-structured team (Motorbase only first properly ventured into the Rob Austin brought his eponymous In terms of accessibility, exposure, BTCC in 2007) can rapidly evolve team, already successful in FIA return on investment, profile and into one of the major players in one historic Formula 1 plus other single- following there has never been of the world’s most desirable motor seater, GT and sportscar categories, a better time to join Britain’s sport arenas. into the BTCC in 2011 and has biggest and boldest motor racing championship. 2012 Dunlop MSA British TouRING CAR CHAMPIONSHIP “The new cost-cutting NGTC regulations are certain to further enhance the BTCC’s attractiveness and effectiveness in the coming years and we are delighted to be the first manufacturer to commit to these latest technical rules.” Dave Hodgetts – Managing Director of Honda UK

NGTC Talking about a new generation

Like a famous Hollywood Racing – had announced they blockbuster, the British Touring will be taking the NGTC route for Car Championship has in 2011 2012. Notably Honda will construct witnessed its very own ‘rise of its latest Civic model to the new the machines’ – namely its new regulations and provide Pirtek 12 and highly cost-effective Next with identical customer versions. 13 Generation Touring Car machines. TH Motorsport, after a season out, had also revealed it will make a Six NGTC cars – a fifth of the record return next year with an NGTC-spec 30-strong grid – appeared, with Skoda Octavia. The floodgates machines built around Toyota’s have well and truly opened… Avensis, Audi’s A4, Proton’s Gen-2 and Vauxhall’s Insignia models. Andrew Jordan, a proven race Bigger, faster and even more winner in the BTCC, clearly spectacular to watch thanks envisages his Pirtek team becoming to flame-spitting turbocharged even more competitive in 2012 engines, they herald the future thanks to its move to full-spec NGTC direction of the BTCC and surely machinery. He says: “If you want one of the most captivating to win it’s got to be an NGTC car. chapters in the championship’s Just look how the Audi and Toyota history. in particular have come on in 2011 – the development year of NGTC. Their rise to the top this past season It’s only going to move forward came quicker than perhaps again during the winter for the 2012 even TOCA, the organisation that season. We believe we’ve pulled runs the BTCC and devised the off a real coup by ordering ready- new regulations, anticipated. developed cars from Honda using Dynojet, with its Avensis, Rob Austin Honda’s own engine. Racing, with its Audi A4, and Welch Automotive, with its Proton “I’ve no doubt the regulations will – all impressive newcomers to the lead to an even greater variety championship – started to give the of car – teams can be a bit bold. bigger, established teams a real Consequently that will increase fright. the widespread appeal of the championship as it will resonate So much so that well before the with an even greater number end of the season a number of of public who may be loyal to a the established outfits – including particular brand of car.” title-winner Honda Racing, multiple past champion Triple Eight Race Engineering and rising star Pirtek 2012 Dunlop MSA British 2012 Dunlop MSA British TouRING CAR CHAMPIONSHIP TouRING CAR CHAMPIONSHIP “The real genius of the NGTC rules is they reward talent and effort, not budget. New, small teams can join and compete with established heroes because the cars are low-cost, same-for-everyone, tuneable race cars that produce all the on-track excitement the BTCC is famous for.”

Scott Brownlee – General manager, Press & Public Affairs, Toyota GB

The foundation for NGTC is a Indeed, teams have the After his debut BTCC season Welch greater emphasis on common option of running either TOCA’s Automotive’s Daniel Welch adds: components – turbo, wastegate, unbranded ‘stock’ NGTC-spec “NGTC has the potential to attract intercoolers, injectors and ECU engine or, whether privateer or an even greater variety of makes 14 (engine control unit), six-speed full manufacturer-back entries, and models of car – we’re unique sequential gearbox, subframe, developing their own powerplant 15 in running the Proton and that is brakes, dampers and suspension – from their chosen model of enabling us to stand out from the – which dramatically drives down the car’s broad family – to the crowd and gather a following. For costs for teams looking to compete regulations. For example, Toyota a budding team like us as well in one of the world’s most attractive GB has invested in an NGTC as our sponsors, to be seen to be motor sport arenas. engine programme, developing knocking on the door of the top its 3ZR motor for independent ten and mixing it with the cars of For those teams, their drivers and teams running its Avensis. Other the established big teams is great sponsors who play a crucial role manufacturer engines already on news.” in helping it to all go around, this the grid include Honda’s Type R, news is heaven-sent. As has been Ford’s Duratec and VW’s TFSI in What’s more, the new NGTC well documented, the cost of a relevant machinery. regulations will be maintained at new, ready-to-race NGTC machine least through to 2016 and that any is significantly less than that for Toyota GB General Manager of subsequent review then should, at the older S2000 cars. Projected Press & Public Affairs Scott Brownlee most, only lead to minor updates. budgets to physically run a car for enthuses: “Bitter experience told the course of the season have also me a new engine programme Looking to the future, Next been slashed. would be expensive and uncertain. Generation really is the next big I was wrong on both counts. The thing… Dynojet driver Frank Wrathall, NGTC rules are clear and give who ended the season with four reassurance of parity without the Indeed the forward-thinking outright podium finishes and need to enter into an expensive Swedish Touring Car Championship three maximum scores in the and endless development has already joined the burgeoning Independents Trophy, comments: programme to chase power bandwagon by confirming that “The NGTC rules are incredibly because TOCA ensures broad it’s adopting the new NGTC well thought through. They remove parity of performance through regulations. the expense of having to develop boost adjustment. It meant we components but also still provide have been able to give our teams with a considerable customers the kudos of running engineering challenge. While a Toyota engine with no risk of there are more standardised parts it being either too expensive or underneath to keep costs down, uncompetitive. teams and manufacturers can quite justifiably still bask in the glory And team boss and driver Rob of having built and engineered a Austin says: “NGTC is a really good successful car.” concept. We’d always looked at the BTCC – it’s the sexiest grid in Britain by far – and the lower costs involved with NGTC have given us our break. The cars look the absolute business, they sound better and it’s as level and well- regulated a playing field as you’re going to find in motor sport.” 2012 Dunlop MSA British 2012 Dunlop MSA British TouRING CAR CHAMPIONSHIP TouRING CAR CHAMPIONSHIP “Quite simply, no other motor sport championship in the UK comes remotely close to level of TV coverage, viewer numbers, spectator attendance, media coverage or quality of competition.”

Alan J Gow – BTCC Series Director

2012 Calendar Pillar to post

As the UK’s premier race series, More than just taking the the Dunlop BTCC headlines at spectacle to people right around all of the country’s major motor the UK, the wide mix of circuits sport venues. The nationwide presents the teams and drivers 0616 ten-weekend calendar selects with different challenges. Whether 17 the best possible tracks to ensure it’s the super-fast white-knuckle maximum appeal and an ever- adventure of Thruxton’s daunting, 25-26 August 23-24 June TBA 22-23 September Knockhill, Fife Croft, North Donington Park, Rockingham, changing backdrop for trackside high-speed corners or the Knockhill Yorkshire Leicestershire Northamptonshire fans as well as those watching live rollercoaster ride of Knockhill’s With spectacular views over the Forth Estuary, Knockhill is Croft, near Darlington and the Set in the heart of England, Rockingham in Corby – the UK’s coverage on ITV4 and ITV4 HD. undulating, off-camber twists, all Scotland’s premier motor sport A1M, provides the BTCC with a Donington is close to both newest racetrack – is easily the individual venues have their venue. Access is via the M90 great base in the North East close the M1 and M42 motorways. accessible from both M1 and between Perth and Edinburgh to Middlesbrough, Newcastle, Birmingham, Derby and A1M motorways. Cambridge, The geographical spread of the own characteristics to test the or A9 from Glasgow. Sunderland and York. Nottingham are all on the Peterborough and Leicester circuits provides teams and their competitors’ nerves and skills to doorstep. are within 30 minutes. partners with an opportunity to the limit. engage with different audiences across the UK. It also ensures that Furthermore, the BTCC takes hundreds of thousands of fans great care in selecting which from almost every corner of the layout at which venue will Croft country can catch the tin-top provide the crowds with the best action close to their homes when value-for-money entertainment. the travelling show makes its now That’s why races are held on a 09-10 June 06-07 October 11-12 August eagerly-anticipated annual visit to variety of tracks such as the epic Oulton Park, Silverstone, Snetterton, Norfolk Cheshire Northamptonshire their region. Brands Hatch ‘Grand Prix’ circuit, Snetterton is located on the A11 to the west of Norwich. picturesque Oulton Park Island Situated close to Chester and the As the home of the British Grand M6 and M62 motorways, Oulton Prix, Silverstone needs little Though in rural East Anglia, its The 2012 calendar includes and ‘oval’ stadium of Rockingham. Park is easily accessible from all introduction. Located close to catchment area includes cities such as Cambridge and circuits in Cheshire, Fife, Further whetting the appetite, the the major conurbations in the Oulton Park both M1 and M40 motorways it North-West, including Manchester draws fans from London and Ipswich, plus many on holidays Hampshire, Kent, Leicestershire, BTCC switched to the challenging and Liverpool as well as North the Midlands. at coastal resorts. Norfolk, Northamptonshire and new Snetterton 300 circuit in 2011 Wales. North Yorkshire. And with each – a move that was given a huge Donington Park Snetterton race meeting hosting three full ‘thumbs up’ by both drivers Rockingham points-scoring BTCC showdowns, and fans.

there’s never a dull moment. The Silverstone season blasts into action – and From the public seeking a day full reaches its thrilling climax a little of thrills and spills to businesses more than six months later – at both large and small looking 28-29 April 31 March-01 April Thruxton, & 20-21 October Brands Hatch, close to London to dazzle staff and clients, the Hampshire Brands Hatch, Kent and the M25, in Kent. Teams will country-wide BTCC really does Brands Hatch Thruxton’s location, close to M3, Brands Hatch is situated just have a welcome mid-season tick all the right boxes. A303 and A34 road networks, Thruxton south of London on the A20 in break to avoid calendar clashes provides swift access from northern Kent; just three miles London, Portsmouth and from the M25 and close to the with the British Formula 1 Grand Southampton as well as, more M20 and M26 motorways. Prix, the London 2012 Olympic locally, from Basingstoke, Newbury and Reading. Games and other major global sporting events. 2012 Dunlop MSA British 2012 Dunlop MSA British TouRING CAR CHAMPIONSHIP TouRING CAR CHAMPIONSHIP

TV & Media Grabbing the headlines

As Britain’s biggest motor Adding to the live coverage Speed and MAX Power on major racing championship, the BTCC are 60-minute race highlights networks such as ESPN, Star Sports commands enormous media repeated three times after each and Sky Sports. Many are repeated coverage throughout the UK and event – on ITV1 and ITV4 as well as several times over… globally. their respective HD channels and 18 The BTCC is big news as it tours the ‘simulcast’ on itv.com. 19 Television has always been the UK, particularly with regional ITV BTCC’s most powerful medium, In the past 12 months the network’s and BBC crews who all want a slice and, since the late Eighties the commitment has grown in other of the action when the teams and championship has received regular areas – every one of the BTCC’s drivers roll into town. Indeed, it is coverage from Britain’s biggest TV Saturday afternoon qualifying not uncommon for crews to base operators. sessions was shown live on a their entire sports news round-ups new dedicated and heavily- from the colourful backdrop of ITV publicised www.itv.com/touringcars the BTCC’s pit lane and paddock. Having broadcast the BTCC since webpage that extended to audio This of course means tremendous 2002, Britain’s premier commercial interviews with drivers after each added media value as the BTCC television network, ITV, is committed event, regular expert blogs and a is paraded before audiences of to covering the championship until comprehensive catalogue of race potentially millions during lunch and 2014 at least. highlights from the season for the teatime broadcasts. public to watch again. Its live coverage of the series – In 2011, regional TV previews to around seven hours from each Simon Knight, Field Sales Director race events totalled more than event on both its ITV4 and ITV4 for household brand Wrigley, 100 minutes with coverage on the HD channels as well as its itv.com comments: “It’s all about the great following outlets: Brands Hatch Indy website – is unprecedented in UK visibility the BTCC offers. The live (BBC South East & ITV Meridian); motor sport. Furthermore it provides coverage on ITV4 is second to Thruxton (BBC South); Croft (ITV the BTCC with a TV arrangement none from the features at the start Tyne Tees N Yorks & Newcastle/ that puts even those of high-profile of the programme through to the Cumbria & BBC Look North); international series firmly in the coverage across a whole Sunday Snetterton (ITV Anglia & BBC Look shade. Indeed, not even Formula 1 afternoon, not to mention the East); Rockingham (BBC Look East); receives as much live TV coverage repeats shown later in the week. In Silverstone (ITV Anglia, BBC Look in the UK as the BTCC race day. addition there’s a great interactive East & Oxford). Moreover, regional website covering all areas of the TV sportsdesks often feature their But perhaps the most telling statistic BTCC.” local drivers with footage ahead of all is the number of viewers of or following race events, gaining presently watching the BTCC on TV National & International TV the BTCC yet more valuable in the UK – in 2011 they skyrocketed The BTCC is broadcast on a variety airtime. by an astronomical 35 per cent to of networks (both terrestrial and a total cumulative viewer number/ digital) in six continents around the hours of 21,502,734. world: Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe, North America and South America (see chart on page 36). It is estimated that the audience reach per race event is more than ONE BILLION households. Some of those networks screen stand-alone 45 minute-plus BTCC highlights shows while others include short bulletin- type edits of the action via motor sport ‘magazine’ programmes such as Motorsport Mundial, Planet 2012 Dunlop MSA British TouRING CAR CHAMPIONSHIP “British Touring Cars is an important contract for us. The quality of the racing and the whole event brings us to an important audience. Viewing figures are increasing significantly over the last couple of years and I believe those viewers appreciate the great quality of the spectacle.”

Niall Sloane – Controller of Sport (Broadcast), ITV

Through its contacts and appeal, Geoff Love, Publishing Director motor racing championship. It now the BTCC also generates exposure (Automotive), Dennis Publishing, has some 29,000 registered fans, on some of the nation’s most- comments: “We are very proud of with more than half those signing watched lifestyle and consumer our long and exciting partnership up to receive official championship 20 programmes. For example BBC2’s with the BTCC. It makes perfect mailings and details of exclusive acclaimed Top Gear has regularly sense for Dennis, which produces competitions that enable teams 21 included drivers from the BTCC some of the country’s most popular to further market their sponsors’ for its TV series that attracts seven and expert motoring titles as well products. As a frontline sport in this million-plus viewers per episode, as many other top non-automotive digital age, the btcc.net website plus annual DVD compilations. publications, to be associated with is fully interactive with the BTCC’s Jason Plato’s profile in the BTCC the UK’s premier motor sporting social media networks, which has also led to him becoming a arena, which has such mass appeal include dedicated sites on Twitter, presenter on Channel 5’s popular among petrol-heads and general Facebook and YouTube. In less Fifth Gear motoring show. public alike. than 12 months close to 11,000 fans have signed up to its Facebook Media Partnership “Given its fame, the BTCC still page while its Twitter account has For the past eight years the BTCC grants terrific access for our team attracted more than 7,000 followers. has enjoyed an enviable media while its high profile provides The championship also receives partnership with major publishing exactly the right kind of scope for huge exposure on YouTube, with group Dennis, predominantly a major UK publishing company clips regularly attracting tens if not through its top-selling Auto Express with magazines such as Auto hundreds of thousands of views. For and evo titles both in print and Express, evo and Octane to bring example, more than 130,000 have online. A stream of broad editorial our readers plenty of dynamic, looked up Honda team-mates features and news updates, ticket memorable and often off-the-wall Matt Neal and Gordon Shedden competitions and advertising of story lines.” colliding at Oulton Park in 2011, race events puts the BTCC’s name while Jason Plato’s miraculous in front of key new audiences. control of a high-speed spin in 2009 Other major titles such as Men’s BTCC Media/btcc.net is now at the 599,000 mark and still Fitness and PC Pro are also part of The global media and many climbing! the mix. millions of fans are updated by the championship’s busy Media Office, Pre-season, an official Media Day In addition, the magazines’ which of course also stimulates is also staged, offering hundreds databases – running into hundreds media coverage across many of media – as well as thousands of thousands of subscribers – are types of outlets. Central to this more eager sponsors, fans and targeted with further BTCC news service is the BTCC’s official website guests – a sneak preview of the and promotions. In return, Dennis www.btcc.net – the ultimate online forthcoming season, with plenty has used its relationship with the BTCC fix that provides information of opportunities to film and BTCC to promote the Auto Express about every aspect of the photograph the unveiling of new and evo brands with prominent championship. cars and liveries as well as interview logos on the sides of every BTCC drivers and other key players. It’s car, plus the championship’s btcc.net attracts up to 141,000 an event that attracts media from podium and ITV interview unique visitors per month – all corners – those in attendance backdrops. staggering numbers for a domestic at 2011’s Media Day covered the full spectrum of print, radio, TV and online media, among them many ‘big hitter’ specialist, automotive, lifestyle, consumer, regional and national press. 2012 Dunlop MSA British 2012 Dunlop MSA British TouRING CAR CHAMPIONSHIP TouRING CAR CHAMPIONSHIP

Radio, Magazines, with the trackside crowds having extra publicity he receives raises his As the BTCC travels the land, The BTCC also provides perfect btcc.net website. An official BTCC Newspapers & Online much in common with our readers profile and fanbase, which gives big provincial newspapers print material for the UK’s many radio ‘iTunes’ podcasting page, updated Previews, plus qualifying and race – they’re honest, enthusiastic and him added opportunity to attract plenty of column inches about the stations. For Silverstone’s final round, with more than 300 podcasts, was reports, regularly appear in the the cars they drive on the road are sponsors. In return, it gives The championship, with a heavy focus Mat Jackson was the star guest also launched in 2011. In the same 22 national media, both in print and similar to those being raced on the Sun branding on his car, valuable on the star names and local drivers on BBC Radio Northampton’s year the championship received track, plus there’s that little extra TV exposure, plus an exclusive and teams. Some circuits, working ‘sportsweek’ preview show, BBC over 51 hours of total airtime across 23 online. Noticeably, the UK’s biggest selling newspaper, The Sun, has tinge of excitement that comes first-person ‘bonus’ to offer our in conjunction with the BTCC, have Radio 2 discussed the possible title 155 BBC and Independent radio significantly increased its coverage with knowing it could be their car readers, so it’s a win-win situation arranged hugely beneficial tie-ins outcome on the eve of the event stations, including 5 Live, Radio of the BTCC on its website – its that wins. between a great name in a great with their most influential regional and Radio 1 presenter ‘Comedy 1, Radio 2 and TalkSPORT. BTCC motor sport pages make for one sporting arena and a great media publications – for example Croft Dave’, from the Chris Moyles broadcasts on radio in the UK in of its most popular sports sections, “Our involvement has also led to organisation.” with the Northern Echo to produce Breakfast Show, was an enthusiastic 2011 attracted an estimated attracting millions each week. one of the star names, Jason Plato, an eight-page pull-out preview. visitor. 54 million listeners. writing an online column for us – the Widely-read trade and lifestyle The Sun’s Chris Hockley enthuses: publications from building, IT, utility Meanwhile, appointed radio “It’s great for The Sun to have and emergency services plus other agency Talking Point Broadcasting a direct involvement in Britain’s sports have all featured BTCC scheduled interviews and reports premier series. It’s a perfect fit content. for national and local BBC and commercial radio stations as well as updating the audio interview page with over 550 driver and team interviews on the official 2012 Dunlop MSA British TouRING CAR CHAMPIONSHIP “The BTCC is a great platform for us to not only test our tyres but also leverage our key message of ‘motorsport technology for the road’. Large crowds, manufacturer involvement and trade hospitality opportunities all add to a successful package.” Eddy Geerdink – Marketing Director, Goodyear Dunlop Tyres UK Limited

Sponsorship & Marketing Lights, cameras, traction

The high-profile BTCC delivers one The Goodyear Dunlop group is of the most attractive 360-degree entering its eighth year as major commercial and communications title sponsor with the BTCC in 2011. platforms in UK sport. Its premier Dunlop tyre brand has been the championship’s 24 There is no doubt that the BTCC title sponsor for most of that 25 has traditionally offered a unique time, although it handed over opportunity for sponsors, packaging the platform to sister UK fast-fit exciting brand values with a loyal, company HiQ for 2008-09. Dunlop passionate and nationwide fan and HiQ have interacted with base, both trackside and via its the series and used each race ever-increasing live terrestrial weekend to generate a new, television coverage. Indeed, the growing customer base. TV concept of instantly recognisable coverage, newspaper column showroom cars competing inches and online social networking bumper-to-bumper has always have also helped elevate these provided the BTCC with its own brands to an increased position of highly-popular ‘USP’ within strength within the industry, courtesy motor sport. of their sponsorship of the BTCC.

Sponsors and business partners “The BTCC is a great platform for continue to utilise a range of us to not only test our tyres but strategic activation opportunities also leverage our key message that are unrivalled in contemporary of ‘motorsport technology for motor racing and clearly make the road’,” states Eddy Geerdink, the BTCC one of the best-value Marketing Director, Goodyear investments in the sporting Dunlop Tyres UK Limited. “Our marketplace. For any astute and continual development in racing imaginative company, participation tyres is evident through our grants a powerful opportunity performance on track at the BTCC. to bring alive a brand in front of Our title sponsorship of the series hundreds of thousands of trackside provides us with a tremendous spectators and millions more opportunity to leverage our TV viewers. brand within the UK’s biggest motor sporting championship. The The broad range of companies presence of large crowds, a huge involved – many of them blue chip, TV audience, the involvement whether suppliers to the BTCC or of major manufacturers and team sponsors – also demonstrates availability of hospitality for trade the power of a large crowd guests all add up to a successful and prime-time TV audience, package.” particularly when there is a strong demographic profile. That’s why Other major high-street names the series has such strong appeal have formed strong partnerships to both consumer and business-to- with the BTCC. One such is the business products. Intercontinental Hotel Group (IHG) through its Holiday Inn brand, whose involvement in the BTCC has been a key factor in raising brand awareness within the UK. 2012 Dunlop MSA British TouRING CAR CHAMPIONSHIP “It’s all about the great visibility the BTCC offers. The live coverage on ITV4 is second to none.” Simon Knight – Field Sales Director, Wrigley UK

“Holiday Inn’s five-year “For Redstone the 2011 sponsorship What’s more in 2011 the BTCC involvement in the British Touring of the Airwaves Racing Team was started providing team sponsors Car Championship has been a a bold statement both externally with an even greater branding great experience for IHG, providing and internally that Redstone proposition when it became a platform to build the brand, was revitalised and raring to go,” the first UK race series to move 26 integrate key marketing strategies explains Claire Botha, Marketing 27 the traditional racing number and drive sales in an exciting Director. plate from the car’s front door. environment,” reports Adrian White, By switching numbers to the side Partnership Marketing Director, IHG. While doing wonders for a window, sponsors were given an company’s brand or product, the even bigger canvas. The BTCC’s geographical reach BTCC also offers sponsors such and wide television coverage as Redstone ‘money-can’t-buy’ Wrigley – via its now familiar allows companies such as Holiday experiences at its events. The Airwaves brand – is one of the Inn and Holiday Inn Express to feedback from teams and sponsors forward-thinking companies to engage with customers across is always the same: no other motor have taken advantage of this the UK, bringing the brands to life sport arena in the UK provides such opportunity. “It’s fair to say our car in a dynamic setting as well as wonderful marketing possibilities as looks amazing on TV, and who providing accommodation for both the BTCC. else can offer you a chance to fans and participants. put your brand on each side of “As well as bringing exposure to the the car and have it race around “We use our involvement in the Redstone brand, the events have some of the best racing circuits in sporting property to continue been well received by clients and the world in front of thousands of to raise brand equity in a highly staff alike,” enthuses Botha. “The the most passionate followers of charged environment, engaging unique hospitality opportunities motorsport,” says Simon Knight, Field with the sports minded across have been our way of saying thank Sales Director. “The Airwaves brand the country,” continues White. you to our valued clients, allowing is all about ‘kicking up a gear’ and “It allows us to interact with the them to experience the excitement partnering with the Motorbase teams, sponsor brands and fans to and pride Redstone staff feel when team within the BTCC allows us to generate incremental revenues seeing our team on the track. Every place our brand in front of new and while providing quality networking aspect of the team’s hospitality existing consumers, talking to them opportunities, resulting in significant adds to the unique VIP experience about the benefits of the Airwaves ROI through the programme from the informal venue, the brand.” in many areas. The events welcoming staff, the grid walk and themselves allow IHG to engage garage tour. Throughout the day There’s far more to Wrigley’s a variety of internal and external the people you meet exude pride involvement than simply sticking stakeholders in an exclusive and and team loyalty and draw guests decals on a racing car, however. It desirable environment, while in as avid fans.” leverages its activities to a far wider providing a platform for interesting audience right across the country, communications with press and Teams work closely with their as Knight explains. “One piece of consumer promotions.” sponsors to ensure the full potential activity that worked very well for of their involvement in the series is us was partnering with one of our Information and communications maximised. Whether the sponsor is a important customers, BP, whereby technology expert Redstone blue-chip company from the motor we ran a competition giving BP/ returned to the BTCC in 2011 as industry or a familiar high-street Airwaves customers the chance a sponsor of the Airwaves Racing brand, the BTCC provides a broad to win tickets to one of the race Team and, like IHG, has leveraged spectrum of opportunities. The weekends. Again helping us drive its partnership in several key media value generated in the UK great visibility of our brand on directions. and beyond is the main attraction the forecourt and in store on the and research has revealed that the counter.” worth of the TV coverage alone is at least three times greater than normal TV advertising. 2012 Dunlop MSA British 2012 Dunlop MSA British TouRING CAR CHAMPIONSHIP TouRING CAR CHAMPIONSHIP

Pirtek is the market leader in the Equally importantly perhaps, “We use the Pirtek BTCC car at on-site hose replacement market all these sponsors can interact exhibitions such as ‘Scot Plant’, an and has just extended its title face-to-face with the general event which attracts thousands sponsorship of the Eurotech team public, who are hugely passionate annually – it provides a massive 28 for a further two seasons. And for about drivers, teams, competing focal point to draw people in,” says good reason, too, as Marketing marques – and, crucially, those Argent. “People are always excited 29 Manager Tammie Argent explains. brands actively involved in the that there’s a British Touring Car “Before we committed we looked series. Another major appeal is that there and we also invite along the seriously at all aspects of what we race events provide an easy-to- drivers and team principal Mike do,” she reports. “We went to all of implement opportunity for data Jordan. The exhibitions we attend our franchises for feedback and put collection. aren’t probably the likeliest of forward options for other sports as places to find a racing car so it’s well. But as far as coverage, brand There is a myriad of commercial a real crowd puller. Our centres recognition, exposure and access opportunities away from the race also have used the racing to to the team, there was nothing else track, too. Many of the competing draw in customers and offer ticket that came close to BTCC – and manufacturers enhance their competitions and giveaways.” for the budgets required.” BTCC highly visible involvement in sponsorship also helps to highlight the UK’s premier championship With such a successful track record Pirtek’s position as the UK’s fastest by taking live BTCC shows into when it comes to delivering results, emergency hose-replacement dealerships, using their drivers and few proactive brands can ignore supplier. fully-liveried show cars to attract the power of highly attractive target audiences into showrooms. propositions offered by the BTCC’s Show cars are also a huge draw profile and pole position pedigree. at exhibitions and other such promotional functions. 2012 Dunlop MSA British TouRING CAR CHAMPIONSHIP

Hospitality The best seats in the house

The high-profile, high-drama, While some race meetings are These hospitality ‘villages’ – often big-crowd backdrop makes staged at internationally renowned situated right at the heart of the BTCC the perfect platform racing circuits such as Brands the action – provide VIPs with and environment for teams and Hatch, Silverstone and Donington the best possible seats in the 30 sponsors to entertain guests. So Park, others take place at smaller, house, adding to their race-day it’s no surprise that a wealth of far- lesser-known but equally important experience. Moreover, the busy 31 reaching corporate activities are circuits such as Croft in the North- BTCC timetable is specifically available… catering for all tastes East and Knockhill in Scotland. organised to allow drivers and key and budgets. Wherever the location, however, team management time to make there’s always a real buzz and ‘big- personal appearances during the Moreover, with so many key event’ atmosphere when the BTCC day’s racing, providing an extra decision makers maximising the bandwagon rolls into town. dimension and insight to these BTCC’s enormous potential, there important corporate activities. are plenty of networking and “The BTCC at Knockhill never business-to-business opportunities fails to impress and 2011 was no Whatever your particular to explore. It’s also the perfect exception,” confirms Derek Butcher, requirements, the high-flying BTCC environment for companies to Chief Executive of Knockhill Circuit. offers organisations of all sizes strengthen business ties with existing “With a record number of cars on unrivalled opportunities, as well partners and generate higher the grid, a quality support package as the very real promise of an morale among staff. including two local classes, the exhilarating taste of life in the racing, atmosphere and feedback fast lane. The BTCC’s pedigree and huge from race fans was the best in terrestrial TV coverage means it years. We are delighted that the enjoys an enviable status among teams and drivers love the unique the UK’s elite sports. This elevated challenges of Knockhill so much. standing gives each BTCC meeting With its famous twists, turns and a real prominence and true sense blind corners, it always provides of occasion, enabling hosts to take spectacularly close racing. 2012 the ‘wining and dining’ of VIP guests is the 20th anniversary of Touring to new levels. Furthermore, the Cars at Knockhill and we are all BTCC is able to provide its teams looking forward to celebrating this and commercial partners with an milestone in style!” opportunity to invite guests from across the UK, thanks to a careful Inevitably, local amenities vary selection of venues that sees the enormously at these different series headlining at circuits the venues. Some provide permanent length and breadth of Britain. hospitality suites that can be rented on a race-by-race basis, providing businesses with the perfect opportunity to entertain clients and reward employees in purpose- built surroundings. Typically, major manufacturers such as Porsche, Chevrolet and Honda and big- name sponsors prefer to welcome guests into their own strongly branded bespoke structures and dedicated hospitality units. Furthermore, live television feeds ensure that nobody misses any of the bumper-to-bumper thrills on the race track. 2012 Dunlop MSA British TouRING CAR CHAMPIONSHIP “People like good-value entertainment and that’s where the BTCC beats everything else hands down by providing great racing. The series appeals to everybody, from your hardcore motor sport fans to people who simply want a fun family activity.” Derek Butcher – Chief Executive, Knockhill Racing Circuit

Spectator Appeal Fan-tastic days

The BTCC is firmly established not ‘Fast and friendly’ best describes only as Britain’s most popular form the intoxicating race-day of motor racing but also as one of atmosphere – the BTCC is rare the UK’s top sporting attractions, among other major sports in with crowds rivaling those at encouraging interaction between 32 Premiership soccer matches. the public and the stars of the 33 Trackside attendances increased show. An ‘open paddock’ policy in 2011, with around 13 per cent at circuits plus officially organised more people attending BTCC driver autograph sessions in the race meetings all over the country. pit lane mean the fans can easily This significant rise continues to rub shoulders and grab a word or underline the public’s ongoing love photo with their heroes. affair with the BTCC. The BTCC grid, though, is no The secret to the BTCC’s enduring stranger to famous faces and success is simple: unrivalled even BBC Top Gear’s mysterious entertainment at affordable prices. ‘Stig’ has raced in the series. Fresh Most of all, the BTCC is a fast- from revealing himself as infamous moving show designed to compete ‘The Stig’, Ben Collins joined the against theme parks and shopping Motorbase team to race in the centres just as much as other sports 2010 season finale at Brands Hatch for the public’s leisure time at in front of a record crowd of 42,000 increasingly busy weekends. spectators.

Each race meeting is widely In 2009 Le Mans 24 Hours and three- publicised in advance with both times grand prix winner Johnny national and local focused Herbert was a regular, following marketing and PR campaigns in the wheel tracks of the likes of organised by the host circuit and Jim Clark, Graham Hill, Damon Hill, the dedicated BTCC media office. David Coulthard and Nigel Mansell Regional TV and radio advertising, in becoming the latest big name targeted leaflet drops, high-profile from Formula 1 to join the touring competitions in high-circulation car success story. print media and other promotional and PR activities and stunts – Certainly, the BTCC provides almost including in 2011 a head-to-head unrivalled value-for-money public race between a touring car and entertainment, particularly for a 200mph ice-cream van – all families. Race day admission for combine to spread the awareness children up to 16 is free at most to an audience well beyond the venues whilst adult tickets can be specialist press. And that’s what is pre-ordered for as little as £23. at the heart of this championship’s appeal. 2012 Dunlop MSA British TouRING CAR CHAMPIONSHIP “As far as coverage, brand recognition, exposure and access to the team, there is nothing else that comes close to BTCC.”

Tammie Argent – Marketing Manager, Pirtek

The phrase ‘when the BTCC rolls into “The personalities, the variety, the commercial partners. In short, it’s an town’ really has taken on a whole action-packed racing and the ‘open goal’ for teams to ensure it is new meaning as well. Conurbations accessibility are why the BTCC is so their sponsor’s colours that paint the such as Milton Keynes, Newcastle appealing for fans,” confirms BTCC spectator banks and grandstands and Edinburgh have all hosted major newcomer Frank Wrathall. “The and go home with the fans. 34 city centre shows in recent years. In interaction with the public is on a 35 the Scottish capital road closures whole different level to any other No matter the size of the team, enabled the drivers and teams to series and the support I’ve received whether one of the established demonstrate their race cars at full has been overwhelming. It makes outfits or a smaller one-car speed right by the city’s iconic castle competing in the BTCC a huge buzz!” newcomer, all know the BTCC is a en route for the series’ annual visit to golden opportunity to interact with the Knockhill circuit in Fife. Elsewhere, the championship’s – and win over – one of the world’s status also attracts high-profile most excitable and enthusiastic Such high-profile displays are free celebrities from both motor sport motor sport audiences. for the public and a marketing and other entertainment fields. dream for teams and their sponsors. Celebrity faces are regularly No surprise, then, that spectator Thanks to the BTCC’s unrivalled spotted at BTCC meetings. Those loyalty has always been one of attention to detail, planning spied in the paddock and on the BTCC’s major strengths – a fact expertise and promotional the grid in 2011 included former proven by exit polls conducted skills, each of these unique and England and Arsenal footballer Paul by independent survey specialists. spectacular events has drawn Merson, Holby City and Casualty Remarkably, 95 per cent of those mammoth levels of interest from actress Amanda Mealing, celebrity interviewed said they would attend the public and media alike – TV chef James Martin, glamour again, and more than 85 per cent Edinburgh’s city council estimated model Lucy Pinder, world champion indicated they would recommend that some 18,000 people, all of gymnast Beth Tweddle, Welsh BTCC race events to their friends. them potentially new fans, lined rugby ace Andy Powell, Olympic Survey data also confirmed Johnston Terrace to see the BTCC’s gold medal winner Ed Clancy and far above average levels of stars in action. fellow top international cyclist Alex sponsorship recall, with the majority Dowsett, as well as a raft of motor of people interviewed expressing And the BTCC is already a long racing stars including former F1 loyalty to products promoted via way down the path of encouraging world champions Lewis Hamilton, the championship. its next generation of fans thanks Damon Hill and Jody Scheckter. to a proactive schools programme, An unwavering commitment by the which invites a local class or youth In addition, race-goers can take championship to a coordinated group into the paddock on Friday advantage of giveaway offers from programme of pre-event promotion afternoons for a VIP tour of the teams and sponsors, reinforcing the in conjunction with each circuit pit lane. exhilarating family atmosphere. means the BTCC’s popularity is sure to continue spiraling to new heights. The youngsters are shown around During the BTCC’s Pit Lane the cars – some are even selected Walkabout sessions – when the to sit in the driver’s seat – and also public, including children, are meet key team members plus invited to meet the drivers for the star drivers for autographs, autographs and photos – a Q&A sessions and photos. It’s a staggering amount of team programme that in 2012 will enter merchandise and sponsor-related its ninth year and which, since its products ranging from caps, inception in 2004, has provided pens and posters to stickers and some 2250 primary and secondary- autographs cards are handed out. aged youngsters with arguably Indeed, some teams have turned their most inspiring and motivating the exercise into a fine art, using the day out of their school years. sessions to run successful product competitions and promotions for their 2012 Dunlop MSA British 2012 Dunlop MSA British TouRING CAR CHAMPIONSHIP TouRING CAR CHAMPIONSHIP

2011 BTCC Global Television Coverage

Country Network Transmissions Homes

Asia ESPN & Star Sports 2 448,390,147 493,580,147 Australia Network 10 2 7,800,000 19.4 million Hong Kong iCable 2 TBC Global household reach receiving Total number of UK TV viewers Italy Telenova 2 2,000,000 Latin America Speed 2 2,000,000 BTCC 47-minute highlight programmes in 2011 Poland SportKlub+ 2 2,500,000 Portugal Sport TV 2 670,000 South Africa Supersport 2 2,220,000 USA/Canada Speed 2 2 15,000,000 Total UK TV Audience* 47-minute international highlight programmes from all 10 BTCC rounds – each screened twice by all broadcasters

2004 11.8m Cumulative Global Household Reach 10.9 billion+ Cumulative annual global 2005 11.1m households TV reach 2009 1.35billion 2010 1.60billion 2006 10.7m 2011 10.93billion MAX Power (52 minutes) 2007 10.4m Country Network Transmissions Homes † 36 Close to half a billion households around the globe receive 37 the full post-produced highlights package; a further half a Bangladesh Star Sports India 3 234,036 2008 11.7m billion plus households can view the BTCC via motorsport Brunei Star Sports SEA 2 26,155 magazine programmes such as MAX Power, Motorsport Cambodia Star Sports SEA 2 3,206 2009 Mundial and Planet Speed China Star Sports Asia 4 19,777,100 13.8m Hong Kong Star Sports SEA 2 411,633 India Star Sports India 3 23,300,000 Indonesia Star Sports SEA/Asia 6 1,070,582 2010 14.1m Planet Speed (23 minutes) Korea Star Sports SEA 2 4,403,450 Laos Star Sports SEA 2 1,760,000** 2011 m Country Network Transmissions Homes † Macau Star Sports SEA 2 6,700 19.4 Malaysia Star Sports SEA 2 1,442,617 Australia ESPN 3 4,314,570 Maldives Star Sports 3 10,000** Live BTCC coverage on ITV4 and ITV4 HD grew by more than Bangladesh ESPN India 5 234,336 Pan Asia Star Sports 3 68,353,000** Brazil ESPN 3 4,635,638 Mongolia Star Sports Asia 4 88,365** 35 per cent in 2011 Brunei ESPN Asia 7 26,155 Myanmar Sky Sports SEA 2 1,920,000 * Cumulative audience number/hours weighted according to Cambodia SPN Asia 7 3,206 Nepal Sky Sports India 3 50,000 programme duration hours, which reflects sustained viewing Canada TSN 7 8,700,000 New Caledonia Sky Sports SEA 2 6,727** of more than three minutes Caribbean ESPN 3 697,041 Pakistan Sky Sports India 3 1,300,000 China ESPN Asia 7 87,637,000 Papua New Guinea Star Sports Asia 4 6,910 Guam ESPN Asia 7 56,253 Philippines Sky Sports SEA 2 944,984 UK TV Airtime Hong Kong ESPN Asia 7 411,633 Poland SportKlub+ 2 2,700,000 India ESPN India 5 23,300,000 Qatar Al Dawri & Al Kass 2 357,144 Indonesia ESPN Asia 7 186,421 Romania Telesport 2 500,000 Israel ESPN 3 1,950,412 Saudi Arabia KSA 2 870,000 2005 Japan ESPN – Sports 1 3 4,696,510 Singapore Sky Sports SEA 2 295,377 18 hours Korea ESPN Asia 3 12,100,824 South Korea Star Sports Asia 4 4,513,500 Laos ESPN Asia 7 1,760,000 Sri Lanka Sky Sports 3 624,400** 2006 hours Latin America ESPN 3 21,463,000 Taiwan Sky Sports Taiwan 4 5,785,000 15.5 128 hours Macau ESPN Asia 7 4,875 Thailand Sky Sports SEA 2 379,849 Total number of hours of ITV Malaysia ESPN Asia 7 1,457,306 UK & Eire Sky Sports 5 9,000,000 2007 Maldives ESPN 3 10,000** Russia Drive TV 5 2,000,000 21 hours coverage in 2011 Mexico ESPN 3 4,971,683 Vietnam Sky Sports SEA 2 10,000 Middle East ESPN 3 709,800 Uruguay Channel 22 2 3,500 2008 Pan Asia ESPN 3 10,140,000** 86 hours Mongolia ESPN Asia 7 88,365** UK radio coverage Cumulative Myanmar ESPN Asia 7 1,920,000 Motorsport Mundial (23 minutes) 2009 hours Nepal ESPN India 5 50,000 116 in 2011 estimated listeners New Caledonia ESPN Asia 7 6,727 Country Network Transmissions Homes † New Zealand ESPN/Sky Sports 3 542,900 2010 109 hours Oceania ESPN 3 13,520,000** Africa* Zuku 5 12,000 Pakistan ESPN India 5 1,300,000 Asia (incl. India) TEN Sports 2 90,000,000 Papua New Guinea ESPN Asia 7 7,295 Australia Speed 3 1,000,000 2011 128 hours Philippines ESPN Philippines 4 944,984 Canada TVA/MEN TV 4 1,000,000 15 5 5 4 Singapore ESPN Asia 7 295,377 Middle East Al Jazeera 2 25,000,000 South America* ESPN 3 8,607,079 New Zealand TVNZ7 2 125,000 ITV4 and ITV4 HD provided more than six hours of live Stations Million South Korea ESPN MBC 4 4,513,500 Qatar Al Dawri/Al Kass Sport 3 357,144 coverage from all ten BTCC race meetings with post- Southern Africa ESPN 3 2.340,650 Russia Auto Plus 3 500,000 produced highlights screened on both ITV1, ITV4 and Sri Lanka ESPN 3 21,350** Singapore Starhub 2 530,000 ITV4 HD Taiwan ESPN Taiwan 3 5,785,000 Thailand UBC 3 15,400,000 Thailand ESPN Asia 7 514,110 UK & Eire BT Vision 1 500,000 UK & Eire ESPN UK 7 1,000,000 UK & Eire Channel 5 2 17,500,000 55 Vietnam ESPN Asia 7 8,045 USA Speed 2 2 15,000,000 • All TV data sourced from IFM Sports Marketing Surveys Ltd Hours (* Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay) (* Burundi, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Malawi, Rwanda, Sudan, († Official channel numbers unless marked with ** Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia) when estimates) 2012 Dunlop MSA British 2012 Dunlop MSA British TouRING CAR CHAMPIONSHIP TouRING CAR CHAMPIONSHIP

30 cars on the grid Trackside Attendance Manufacturers Total 2011 trackside audience* represented on the grid 366,000+ * Total cumulative three-day attendance at all ten BTCC meetings

Dennis Publishing Figures

Title Magazine circulation / ABC readership

2004 200,000 Auto Express 56,424 / 209,000 2005 17 2005 230,000 2005 6 Evo 61,417 / 213,000 2006 25 2006 255,000 2006 7

2007 26 2007 275,000 2007 6 Website Unique monthly visitors 2008 23 2008 295,000 2008 6

2009 21 2009 310,000 2009 5 autoexpress.co.uk 1,499,044 2010 23 2010 320,000 2010 7 38 evo.co.uk 453,216 39 2011 30 2011 366,000 2011 10

The introduction of new cost-cutting Trackside spectator numbers grew NGTC rules have seen new racers Spectator Survey NGTC regulations resulted in an for the seventh consecutive year in representing Audi, Proton and unprecedented 30 cars lining up on 2011. Totals are cumulative three- Toyota the grid for the 2011 season finale day attendance at all ten BTCC Male Female Under 35 35 or over meetings Average number of www.btcc.net BTCC Facebook BTCC Twitter events attended in 2011 1.81 1.38 1.65 1.86 Percentage who have 2004 44,900 per month November 2010 nil March 2010 nil bought merchandise 42% 30% 39% 41% 2005 46,000 per month December 2010 April 2010 1,200 1,000 Top five aspects enjoyed Racing 43% Racing 33% Racing 46% Racing 35% 2006 48,500 per month January 2011 1,600 October 2010 3,500 most during the day Atmosphere 20% Atmosphere 17% Atmosphere 19% Atmosphere 18% Weather 11% Weather 13% Weather 11% Weather 14% 2007 53,300 per month February 2011 2,500 April 2011 4,220 Good day out 9% Good day out 10% Good day out 10% Good day out 11% Food & Drink 8% Food & Drink 7% Food & Drink 5% Food & Drink 10% 2008 71,100 per month March 2011 3,600 October 2011 7,400 2009 77,100 per month April 2011 4,400 Five aspects the Nothing 44% Nothing 40% Nothing 43% Nothing 44% public disliked Crowds/queues 10% Crowds/queues 17% Crowds/queues 12% Crowds/queues 12% 2010 per month May 2011 110,000 5,100 Travelling 10% Travelling 13% Travelling 10% Travelling 12% 2011 141,000 per month June 2011 6,000 Quality of food 6% Quality of food 7% Quality of food 7% Quality of food 9% 7,900 Toilet queues 6% Toilet queues 3% Toilet queues 6% Toilet queues 4% July 2011 7,200 Tweets Social class AB 35% AB 21% AB 20% AB 47% August 2011 8,000 C1 47% C1 59% C1 54% C1 43% C2 13% C2 3% C2 17% C2 4% 141,000 September 2011 9,500 DE 5% DE 17% DE 9% DE 6% October 2011 10,600 Unique Visitors Personal income 7,400 The BTCC’s dedicated website – under £15,000 3% 4% 4% 1% btcc.net – has witnessed an ever- Followers £15,000 - £19,999 5% 7% 9% 4% increasing number of unique visitors. £20,000 - £24,999 6% 15% 9% 5% In April 2011 the figure topped 10,600 Launched at the start of the £25,000 - £29,999 19% 15% 22% 13% £30,000 - £34,999 14% 11% 9% 16% 140,000 2010 season, the BTCC’s official Likes Twitter site has continued to gain £35,000 - £44,999 18% 22% 19% 18% £45,000 - £54,999 13% 11% 11% 15% thousands of new followers in 2011 As part of its Social Media £55,000 - £64,999 8% 4% 6% 10% campaign, the BTCC launched its £65,000 or over 14% 11% 11% 18% own Facebook site in 2011 – more 28,840 Top three other sports Formula 1 74% Tennis 48% Formula 1 71% Formula 1 74% than 10,000 fans are now ‘like’ watched on TV Football 67% Formula 1 36% Football 63% Football 74% Registered Fans followers Athletics 26% Football 32% Athletics 23% Cricket 74%

The number of fans registering with Top three national The Sun 25% Daily Mail 29% The Sun 29% Daily Mail 28% btcc.net has continued to grow papers read Daily Mail 19% The Times 13% Daily Mail 15% Telegraph 18% year-on-year. Fans receive regular Telegraph 10% Express 10% Express 9% The Sun 8% newsletters and have access to exclusive website content Research carried out by Sports Marketing Surveys 2012 Dunlop MSA British TouRING CAR CHAMPIONSHIP

Support Races That’s entertainment…

The high-profile travelling BTCC In the UK, only the BTCC offers The Clio Cup is the latest in a showcase provides a full weekend Porsche a big enough arena to successful line of showroom model of virtually non-stop on-track captivate the audience it desires. championships run by Renault entertainment. Each of the ten The championship is exclusively for UK that dates back to the early 40 race events features not only racing versions of Porsche’s 180mph Seventies, when leaning 5TLs and three bill-topping touring car 997 model. Big grids of the mouth- TSs wowed the crowds with big 41 showdowns, but also the very best watering German dream machines grids and crazy antics. The Clio of UK single-seater, saloon and handled by top-line drivers – many Cup has carried on that tradition sportscar racing. The packed two- with international touring car, GT with teams and drivers – many day programme includes up to 14 and single-seater experience – with BTCC ambitions – eager races, guaranteeing fans a feast of make for a sensational sight and to get their hands on the cost- top-class motor racing action. sound. effective, identical racing versions of Renault’s potent 210bhp Clio 200 There are five specially selected The cracking series moved up yet model. championships on the regular BTCC another gear in 2011 with the arrival supporting bill, each one adding of the latest-model 911GT3 Cup It’s the perfect proving ground for variety and further thrills. World title- racer as used in the international young tin-top drivers and many of winning Formula 1 manufacturer Porsche Supercup, which features today’s touring car stars, including Renault and legendary supercar alongside many grands prix. Mat Jackson, Andrew Jordan and maker Porsche provide three of Porsche GB also supports its Carrera Tom Onslow-Cole – all BTCC race those championships, while the Cup with a towering state-of-the- winners – earned their spurs in Clios. other two come from flourishing art hospitality suite, which forms British sportscar marque Ginetta. All an integral part of its high-profile “The BTCC is the UK’s largest- five series are fully manufacturer- marketing programme. attended motor sport supported, ensuring that levels of championship, by far making it the professionalism and excitement for “Being a key part of the BTCC logical arena for a major motor crowds are unrivalled by any other package is the ideal platform manufacturer to showcase its motor sport experience in the UK. for Porsche’s UK motorsport technologies and sporting image,” programme,” confirms Marion says Lisa Crampton , General Few companies come close to Barnaby, Porsche GB Motorsport Manager of SRO UK, promoter of matching the illustrious motor Manager. both Renault series’. “The huge sport pedigree of Porsche. With trackside crowds and high-quality a record number of Le Mans Renaultsport runs two live free-to-air television coverage 24 Hours victories behind it, the championships: its Formula enable competitors in the Clio German sportscar brand nowadays Renault single-seater category Cup and Formula Renault UK concentrates on its Carrera Cup and the thrill-a-minute, single- championships to attract long-term series in key global markets. model Clio Cup. Combined, the sponsors, which ultimately gives championships’ roots in the UK them a springboard into the upper stretch back more than 50 years. echelons of motor sport. Indeed, drivers who forged their reputations Formula Renault has supported in the Clio Cup now star in the the BTCC since 1993. The cars BTCC and, in the past decade, the are identical 2-litre, carbon-fibre BTCC crowds and TV viewers have machines that boast an authentic seen a number of names from F1 look and feel, including a seven- Formula Renault go on to reach the speed gearbox. Unsurprisingly, its very top in Formula 1.” grids are full of aspiring F1 racers. In recent years the championship has produced some great names, most notably 2008 and 2007 F1 world champions Lewis Hamilton and Kimi Raikkonen, who were Formula Renault title winners in 2003 and 2000 respectively. 2012 Dunlop MSA British TouRING CAR CHAMPIONSHIP “The BTCC package is the perfect place for the Porsche Carrera Cup GB. It delivers on every front: huge crowds, unrivalled TV, great atmosphere and a real buzz around the events. Being a key part of the BTCC package is the ideal platform for Porsche’s UK motorsport programme.”

Marion Barnaby – Porsche GB MOTORSPORT Manager

Ginetta is very much the new kid “2011 has been another great year on the block – quite literally. Its for Ginetta as part of the BTCC Junior championship, for drivers package,” reports aged 14 to 17, has been a major hit Lawrence Tomlinson, Chairman since it joined the ‘BTCC family’ in of Ginetta. “We’ve kept it fresh by 42 2008, providing plenty of drama as introducing new cars and different 43 the youngsters battle it out for early formats, but a key benefit has been supremacy. Adding to its appeal, the crowd and support. Ginetta the series has attracted young is all about developing young ‘hotshots’ of both sexes and hit talent and we have enjoyed an the headlines in 2009 when Sarah unprecedented response to 2011’s Moore won the title to become close racing. The exposure drivers the first female racer in many and teams gain on the BTCC’s decades to win a major UK motor support package is second to sport crown. In 2010, the company none and, with the advent of social introduced a new, more stylish, media, racing is becoming more five-speed 1.8-litre G40 model, accessible than ever before.” which quickly won favour with both competitors and spectators. All five championships not only deliver the best possible The enthusiastic Yorkshire-based entertainment for trackside BTCC manufacturer’s presence on BTCC fans, but also enjoy hitherto race weekends doubles up with unprecedented levels of television the more powerful, newly created exposure thanks to the live ITV4 and Ginetta GT Supercup. The racing in ITV4 HD coverage from each event. this dual-class series is fast, furious Added to the live Sunday airtime, and unpredictable as the drivers a post-produced highlights support – many with reputations to uphold – race programme, ‘Motorsport UK’, fight to tame the spectacular, new- is screened later on both ITV1 and for-2011 G55 and the older G50 ITV4 platforms, reaching a total coupes. The series also featured pit- audience of between 300,000 stop races – not seen on the TOCA and 500,000. package since the BTCC dropped tyre changes in 2003 – for the first Whichever way you look, it’s a win- time in 2011 to add extra spice and win scenario for all involved. unpredictability to the racing.

The new 3.7-litre, 370bhp V6- powered G55 will continue to race alongside its predecessor, the G50, in 2012 – the G50 the ideal proving ground for young drivers stepping up into the championship for the first time, often from Ginetta’s Junior series. 2012 Dunlop MSA British TouRING CAR CHAMPIONSHIP

TOCA A winning team

The Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship is widely recognised as a world leader. Under the leadership of Series Director Alan Gow, TOCA was formed to take over the 44 running of the BTCC in 1992 and 20 years later it’s continuing to set new standards for sports marketing, promotion and administration of motor sport in Great Britain.

With this proven track record, the highly respected TOCA team has the experience and ability to deliver on all fronts. The organisational structure includes experts in a wide range of Alan Gow Dennis Carter Bob Kettleboro Race Race different specialist disciplines, each and every Administrator & Series Director Director Director one of them totally dedicated to the overall success of the BTCC.

Peter Riches Dan Mayo Carl McKellar Dr Paul Trafford Technical Championship Media Medical Director Co-Ordinator Officer Director

The Willows 17 White House Grove MPA Creative Dr Paul Trafford Low Common Elvington, York High Barn 7 Victoria Circus Deopham, Norfolk Y041 4AL Effingham, Surrey Dowanhill, Glasgow NR18 9DZ KT24 5PR G12 9LB

Telephone Telephone Telephone Facsimile +44 (0) 1953 850657 +44 (0) 1904 607320 +44 (0) 1372 414120 +44 (0) 141 404 2624 Facsimile Mobile Mobile Mobile +44 (0) 1953 850657 +44 (0) 7960 039758 +44 (0) 7786 138905 +44 (0) 7785 557470 Mobile Email Email Email +44 (0) 7916 126448 [email protected] carl.mckellar@ [email protected] Email mpacreative.com [email protected]

BARC (TOCA) LTD Telephone Credits Thruxton Circuit, +44 (0) 1264 882200 MPA Creative Ltd, Hutton Creative Andover, Hampshire Facsimile Ltd, Marcus Simmons, Jakob Ebrey SP11 8PN +44 (0) 1264 882233 Photography, PPG Design & Print Ltd