Speedworks retains Tom Ingram for 2017 BTCC season

The 23-year-old took his first two wins in the category last season in the same car on his way to 10th in the overall points, and he landed fourth place in the Independents Trophy.

"We made tremendous progress last season, and to win our first race together in the very first round was an incredible achievement," explained Ingram.

"Our qualifying pace was superb and our race pace was equally strong.

"I don't see anybody else in our position and with our level of resources doing a better job out there.

"It's vital in the BTCC to make hay on the good days and make the most of the bad days - but last year, our bad days were very, very bad.

"In nine of the 30 races, we didn't score at all and in two more we picked up just a single point.

"If we'd been more consistent and averaged just eighth place in each of those races, we'd have won the championship.

"Having broken our duck, that box has been ticked and we can focus on the bigger picture.

"We have proved we deserve to be here and will go into the new season with a lot more confidence."

Team principal Christian Dick said: "Last year was beyond doubt our best yet in the BTCC by a country mile.

"Winning our first race was a massively significant milestone, and to then back that promise up by fighting towards the sharp end season-long represented a huge step forward.

"That said, it was far from perfect and there are many aspects that we have focused on refining over the winter to enhance our performance for 2017 because the championship never stands still."