Turkington will not compete in 2025 BTCC

PORTADOWN race ace Colin Turkington will not compete in this year’s British Touring Car Championship.

The driver made the announcement this afternoon (Friday, February 14).

In a statement released on his website and You Tube he said, “I know this won’t be the news that so many are waiting for, but today I can confirm I will not be competing in the BTCC in 2025.

“There is not one single reason for this, simply a combination of factors and feelings that has helped me make this decision.

“For now, I don’t know if that is it for good – but I look back with huge pride at the amazing career I’ve had since debuting as a fresh-faced teenager from Northern Ireland in 2002.”

He added, “I cannot imagine having sacrificed any more or working any harder, leaving me with absolutely no regrets. Sustaining the highest level of performance and consistency and winning for the teams I’ve raced for is what’s driven me and the successes I’m most proud of.

“I don’t have too much more to say at this point except that this decision just feels right for me. I reflect on so many amazing memories and life experiences that only the BTCC could have given me.

He thanked the BTCC, BMW and WSR for their support and all his mechanics and engineers “for always giving me 100% and believing in me”.

And thanks his fans he said, “Thank you to all my loyal supporters, incredible sponsors and partners who’ve shared the journey with me and finally, thank you to my family who have been on this emotional rollercoaster with me.

“Driving into parc ferme and seeing the happy faces on Mum and Dad, Louise, Lewis and Adam are the memories I cherish most and will take with me forever.

“The BTCC will forever leave an imprint on me, and I now join many of you as an enthusiastic fan of the series once again.

“That’s all for now. I would like to wish Dick and the entire WSR family the very best of luck in this new season.

“I often say to my boys, ‘Don’t be sad it’s over, just be thankful it happened’.”

Since debuting in 2002, Colin has become one of the greatest touring car drivers of all time, amassing 4 Drivers titles, 5 Independents titles, 192 Podiums, 72 Race Victories, 76 Fastest Laps and 31 Pole Positions.

He finished inside the top 5 in the championship for 16 of his 20 years; a testament to the high level of performance and consistency the BMW star has sustained. Taking five race victories in 2024 and winning the Goodyear Wingfoot Award as the year’s best qualifier reaffirms that Colin is one of BTCC’s current elite performers.