Alan Gow Discusses Innovation and Stability in the BTCC
Alan Gow, Chief Executive of the British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) and President of the FIA Touring Car Commission, shared insights into the championship’s future and enduring success during an exclusive interview at EPARTRADE’s 5th Annual Race Industry Week. Gow highlighted the BTCC’s cutting-edge innovations, commitment to affordability, and the delicate balance of creating a fan-first motorsport spectacle.
Leading the Charge with Sustainability
The BTCC continues to be a trailblazer in motorsport technology. Starting in 2025, the championship will adopt 100% fossil-free sustainable fuel, becoming the first major touring car series globally to achieve this milestone. This shift follows the successful implementation of hybrid technology, which has been a core part of the BTCC for three years.
“We’ve always strived to stay ahead of the curve,” Gow said. “From catalytic converters to hybrid systems, and now fossil-free fuel, our aim is to keep the BTCC relevant and forward-looking while ensuring the excitement and accessibility that define our championship.”
A Fan-Centric Approach
The BTCC’s format of three short, action-packed races per weekend remains its hallmark. Gow emphasized the importance of delivering a high-energy, engaging spectacle that caters to fans and broadcasters alike. “The show is everything,” he stated. “We listen to our fans, and they love the quick-fire nature of our races. It’s what sets us apart.”
The series’ compact 10-event calendar balances action-packed weekends with affordability for teams. “We could add more rounds, but that would strain team budgets unnecessarily,” Gow explained. “It’s about keeping the championship viable for everyone involved.”
Stability and Success in Regulations
The BTCC’s technical regulations, including the NGTC (Next Generation Touring Car) rule set introduced in 2010, have provided unmatched stability. These rules have allowed teams to maximize their investments, ensuring competitiveness and cost-effectiveness. “No other touring car series has maintained such a stable rule set for this long,” Gow said. “This consistency benefits teams, fans, and the championship as a whole.”
Gow also discussed the success of the TOCA engine, a cost-effective entry point for teams that provides a competitive platform while allowing flexibility for development. “The TOCA engine is our Cosworth DFV—an accessible option for new teams while supporting parity on the grid,” he remarked.
Exciting Changes for 2025
The upcoming season will introduce turbo boost in place of hybrid systems, a move designed to simplify the technology while enhancing on-track action. The boost allocation will vary based on race performance, with slower drivers receiving more boost to promote overtaking. “This system ensures competitive racing while maintaining the excitement our fans expect,” Gow noted.
A Promising Season Ahead
With 24 cars registered for 2025 and a mix of seasoned veterans and emerging stars like Jake Hill, Ash Sutton, and Tom Ingram, the BTCC promises another thrilling season. Gow hinted at several significant driver announcements to come, ensuring fresh rivalries and storylines for fans. “We’ve got the right people in the right cars,” he said. “The 2025 season is set to be one of the most exciting yet.”
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