By Zinedine The 2016 British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) season was a captivating spectacle of high-octane racing, showcasing a blend of seasoned veterans and ambitious newcomers battling for supremacy on iconic British circuits. From the nail-biting season opener at Brands Hatch to the dramatic finale, the championship witnessed a rollercoaster of emotions, delivering a healthy dose of unpredictable racing action that captivated motorsport enthusiasts.
A Grid Packed with Talent
The 2016 season saw a highly competitive grid, featuring a diverse mix of teams and drivers all vying for the coveted title. Reigning champion Gordon Shedden, piloting his Honda Yuasa Racing Civic Type R, faced stiff competition from teammate Matt Neal and the ever-consistent Jason Plato in his Subaru Levorg GT. Adding to the excitement were the likes of Colin Turkington, returning to the series with Team BMR’s Subaru, and the young gun Jack Goff, driving for Team IHG Rewards Club with a BMW 125i M Sport.
2016 BTCC Grid Lineup
Unpredictability Reigns Supreme
One of the hallmarks of the 2016 season was its sheer unpredictability. The championship saw a record-breaking eight different race winners, highlighting the competitiveness throughout the field. Sam Tordoff, driving for West Surrey Racing in a BMW 125i M Sport, emerged as a consistent front-runner, clinching his maiden BTCC victory at Thruxton. Meanwhile, Rob Collard, also driving a BMW, secured multiple victories, adding to the excitement of the championship battle.
A Championship Battle for the Ages
The battle for the 2016 BTCC crown went down to the wire, with several drivers remaining in contention until the final race at Brands Hatch. Shedden, aiming for his third consecutive title, faced a relentless challenge from Plato and Tordoff. Ultimately, it was Shedden who emerged victorious, securing his third BTCC title in a tense and dramatic final race.
2016 BTCC Podium Celebration
Beyond the Championship
Beyond the fight for the overall title, the 2016 BTCC season also witnessed compelling battles in other categories. Ashley Sutton, driving a Team BMR Subaru Levorg GT, secured the Independent Drivers’ Championship, while Team JCT600 with GardX claimed the Independent Teams’ Championship. The Jack Sears Trophy, awarded to the highest-placed driver who had not previously scored an overall BTCC podium finish, went to Michael Epps.
Cheering Fans at 2016 BTCC
A Legacy of Thrills
The 2016 British Touring Car Championship season left an unforgettable mark on the hearts of motorsport enthusiasts. The combination of fierce competition, unpredictable racing, and a diverse grid solidified its place as one of the most captivating touring car series in the world. The echoes of roaring engines and the thrill of close battles on iconic tracks continue to resonate, fueling the anticipation for future seasons of this beloved championship.