Jackson remains with Motorbase for 2018

HENLEY'S Mat Jackson will remain with Motorbase Performance after being confirmed as the team's second driver for its 2018 Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championships campaign.

Jackson, a 31-time BTCC race-winner and series runner-up in 2008, is going into his ninth consecutive season with Motorbase.

After a challenging 2017, the 36-year-old is hungrier than ever to add a maiden BTCC title to his impressive tally of 31 race wins and 79 podiums.

“It’s great to be back with the team for another crack at the championship," said Jackson, who will spearhead the Motorbase attack alongside new recruit Tom Chilton.

"I’m looking forward to it immensely. I know that the guys have been hard at work over the winter to improve the pace of the car and there’s been a huge amount of hard work that’s gone in from their side.

“We’ve got a whole new set up this year with the RS and a new team-mate in Tom on-board for the season. It’s going to be an exciting season, and we’re hopeful that the changes will put us in good stead to battle for the BTCC title this year.”

Buoyed by his driver line-up alongside the arrival of the team's brand new Ford Focus RS challenger, Team Principal Dave Bartrum believes his squad are about to embark on their best BTCC campaign to date.

“I’m really happy to continue with Mat alongside Tom this season, it’s a very strong line-up.

"Mat has helped us get the car to where it is now and has been with us from the start of our NGTC journey so it seems fitting for him to join Tom in what should be our strongest campaign to date with the new Focus RS.

“Both Mat and Tom have fantastic proven track records which speak for themselves and they are both hungry to become the 2018 BTCC champion.

"They have great respect for each other professionally and already get on well, which is great for the dynamic of the team.”