Motorbase Performance has today (04 February) confirmed its driver bill for the 2021 Kwik Fit British Touring Car Championship, as Andy Neate and Sam Osborne prepare to climb behind the wheel of the squad’s pair of Ford Focus STs.
Both determined to make their mark on the series in 2021, Neate remains with Motorbase as he looks to consolidate the relationship and work of last year, while Osborne joins the team following an improved sophomore campaign.
After a prolonged absence, Neate returned to the series full-time with the Kent-based outfit in 2020 and worked hard to get to grips with the fierce competition across the grid in the UK’s highest-profile racing championship. The new season will mark the 46-year-old’s first time lining up in the same car over consecutive campaigns – something the Melton Mowbray-based driver feels is an important factor.
“I’m more determined than ever this year,” professed Neate. “For anyone, making it to the grid in the BTCC is a fantastic achievement. For me, returning to the grid with Motorbase Performance for a second consecutive season – something I have never done before – is really exciting.
“Last year for me was not my best year, but after such a long time out and coming back into such a competitive season, it really took me by surprise in terms of how much higher the standard is. But now with that year under my belt, I am chomping at the bit to get going and show my true performance out on-track. The team and I have a great programme lined up and I really am working harder than ever to showcase the results I know I can deliver.”
Building upon his debut campaign, 2020 marked strong progression for Osborne, as he scored his first top ten finish and claimed fourth place in the Jack Sears Trophy standings. For his third season in the championship, the 27-year-old is keen to continue his development.
“I’m thrilled to be working with Motorbase Performance this year,” said Osborne. “With this team, I can continue my progression in 2021. Last year I began to really settle into the series, so my aim for this season is to keep pushing myself as hard as I can and fight for the Jack Sears Trophy.
“Everyone knows how fiercely competitive the BTCC is and that it takes time to adjust. For me, that is a process I have now been through and it’s up to me to show what I am really about this year. With the car we’ve got and the team around me, I think I’ve got every chance and I can’t wait to get started.”
The pair will pilot two of the Mountune-powered Ford Focus STs, run in close collaboration with sister entry MB Motorsport accelerated by Blue Square, whilst also working closely with MB Motorsport drivers Jake Hill and Ollie Jackson to further aid development across both teams.
“I have a great relationship with Andy and Sam and collectively we have a few points to prove this year,” remarked Team Principal, Shaun Hollamby. “That is something that is motivating all of the team as we look ahead to the new season. Both Andy and Sam possess a great deal of natural ability, which you can see from their past successes in various support series; the challenge for both of them this year is to showcase their true potential on a consistent basis.
“Andy and Sam know that they have the support of a great team of people around them and I have been hugely impressed by how motivated and determined they have both been as we have got back to work. We have a great deal of belief in both of them and look forward to them justifying that during the season ahead.”
