Vauxhall confirms commitment for 2002

Vauxhall has dominated the series this year wrapping up the teams' championship halfway through the season and one of its lead drivers, either Jason Plato or Yvan Muller, will take the drivers' title at Brands Hatch this weekend.

The car manufacturer's decision to stay with the series will be key to maintaining the momentum of the championship, which is still in a development stage after going back to basics for this year in an effort to reduce costs.

"This season has been an excellent one for us," said Vauxhall motorsport boss Mike Nicholson. "Naturally we are keen to build on this success, to come back next year and defend our crown. Next year's championship looks like it will be a strong one and we are happy to be part of it."

This year four Astras competed, two of which were funded entirely by Vauxhall, with the other two cars for Phil Bennett and James Thompson being funded by internet finance firm Egg. All four cars were run by Triple Eight Engineering.

While Vauxhall has confirmed that it will run two cars next year, it admitted last month that it may seek outside backing to supplement its 2002 budget. Triple Eight, which will run the team again next year, is also expected to want to continue with its extra two-car team, but will need to secure extra funding. Egg has yet to confirm whether it will continue its BTCC involvement for 2002.

"This is excellent news," said Triple Eight boss Roland Dane of Vauxhall's announcement. "It's not only good for us as a team, but effectively it supports the championship and gives it a real boost."

Vauxhall's latest deal is just for one year, but with the marque's centenary approaching in 2003, it is expected to continue beyond the end of the next year.

Rival marques Peugeot and BTCC newcomers MG have yet to confirm their plans for next year. Both have expressed a desire to continue with the series.