TOCA re-appointed to run British Touring Car Championship

The UK sport's governing body, the Motor Sports Association, launched a tender process for the operation of the category in January, and interested parties were invited to submit proposals.

Jonathan Palmer's MotorSport Vision also tendered and after scrutinising each application, the MSA's selection panel members decided that BARC (TOCA) should remain in charge.

BARC (TOCA)'s multi-year deal begins on January 1, 2017 and there is an option to extend for a further five years from 2022.

Rob Jones, MSA Chief Executive, said: "The MSA British Touring Car Championship is one of the premier titles in UK motor sport and we went into considerable detail before making our decision, assessing all aspects of each of the tenders submitted, scrutinising the business plans in particular.

"As a result of this examination the selection panel decided unanimously that BARC (TOCA) Limited was best placed to ensure the on-going health and success of the BTCC."

Led by Alan Gow, TOCA oversaw the series between 1991 and the end of the 2000 season.

Gow returned in 2003, before the current BARC TOCA Ltd was established and took over management of the BTCC in 2005.

"Naturally we are delighted with the decision and look forward to building on the BTCC's continued success into the next decade and beyond," Gow said.

"TOCA is solely committed to maintaining and improving the BTCC's position as the best in British motor racing and one of the highest regarded championships in world motor sport.

"Since 2005 we have again built the championship back to its premier status and we are happy that our proven, professional and passionate organisation has been recognised by being awarded this new contract."