New calendar released
Organisers of the 2005 MSA British Touring Car Championship have confirmed that Silverstone's National and Brands Hatch's Grand Prix circuits will return to the series next year
"The return to Silverstone's National layout means more/shorter laps and added action for our fans," said BTCC series director Alan Gow. "We last raced there in 1995 and the racing was always full of drama and incident, particularly for spectators in the grandstands around Woodcote corner.
"I am delighted that Jonathan Palmer and Motorsport Vision have reaffirmed their full support of the BTCC by wishing to retain all their rounds," he added. "This support includes a return to Brands Hatch's full-length Grand Prix circuit for the final event, which will provide another exciting, new element to the championship. We are also hoping to install a large Starvision screen at this event, so spectators don't miss out on any of the action that takes place on the GP section."
Gow has also ensured the 10 round calendar will not clash with the FIA Formula 1 World Championship schedule, leading to speculation that ITV significantly increase its coverage of the series in 2005.
"My priority was to ensure that none of our races conflict with grands prix next year - something that is vitally important to our TV scheduling, more details of which will be announced at a later date," said Gow.
Gow admits that serious consideration was given to adding Castle Combe to the calendar and hinted that the Wiltshire venue may host a round in the future.
"Unfortunately there is no room on our calendar for them at this time," said Gow. "However, make no mistake - Castle Combe is certainly top of our list of new venues to visit in the near future.
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