Colin Turkington, a four-time British Touring Car Championship champion, has recently announced his withdrawal from the 2025 grid due to the challenging commercial climate. The 42-year-old Northern Irish driver has been a cornerstone of the West Surrey Racing BMW team for the past eight seasons, with a total of 17 out of his 20 BTCC campaigns dating back to 2002 being alongside the Sunbury-based outfit.
Turkington, known for his impressive collection of titles and 72 race wins, has been a vital part of the team’s success, supported by commercial income, including backing from BMW UK. However, the current circumstances have made it impossible for Turkington to continue his partnership with WSR, leading to his absence from the upcoming season. The team is now looking to fill its four-strong BMW 330i M Sport squad with drivers who can provide financial support. Among them are reigning champion Jake Hill, five-time BTCC race winner Aiden Moffat, series sophomore Daryl DeLeon, and another driver from the BTCC support package.
WSR team boss Dick Bennetts expressed his disappointment in a statement, mentioning their intention to continue their successful partnership for another season. However, the harsh reality of commercial constraints has made it unfeasible, forcing Turkington to seek opportunities elsewhere for the current year. In his own statement, Turkington shared his decision with his fans and supporters, citing a combination of factors that led him to this conclusion. While uncertain about his future in the BTCC, Turkington reflected on his illustrious career with immense pride, emphasizing his dedication to top performance and unwavering commitment to his teams.
Despite the setback in his BTCC journey, Turkington remains open to racing in the future, potentially in 2026 or beyond. In recent years, he has explored various racing categories, participating in historic events at prestigious venues like Goodwood, Classic Sports Car Club races, and even competitions featuring Minis. Additionally, Turkington and his wife Louise have been actively involved in guiding their eldest son Lewis’s racing career, as he transitions from autograss to circuit racing. WSR’s Bennetts conveyed his best wishes to the Turkington family, acknowledging the significant impact they’ve had on the team and expressing hope for a possible reunion in the future.
As Colin Turkington navigates this new chapter in his racing career, the BTCC community looks back on his remarkable achievements with admiration and respect. His legacy as a talented driver and dedicated team member will continue to inspire fans and aspiring racers alike, showcasing the resilience and passion that define the spirit of motorsport. While the road ahead may be uncertain, Turkington’s unwavering commitment to excellence serves as a testament to his enduring impact on the British Touring Car Championship and the racing world as a whole.
