Kumho embarks on a record 26th year with BMW Racing Drivers Club Championship
Trevor Ford, president of the BMW Racing Drivers Club, describes the Kumho tyres as “excellent” and “affordable” (Photo: Kumho)
Sponsors tend to come and go in the fast-moving world of motorsport, making Kumho’s relationship with the BMW Racing Drivers Club one of the longest of its type in UK club history – the opening race of the season at Brands Hatch on 8 April will mark its 26th year.
The original deal inked in 1997 was one of financial support alone, but just three years later the arrangement expanded to include the supply of tyres and for many seasons all competitors ran very happily on the company’s Ecsta V700 street legal semi-slick competition tyre. However, as always happens in motor racing, the cars got quicker and quicker, until the additional options of Ecsta S700 slicks for the more powerful machines and a wet weather pattern, W700, for all became an inevitability.
No Kumho, no BMW Championship
Commenting on the very successful affiliation, Trevor Ford, president of the BMW Racing Drivers Club, says: “It’s quite simple – without Kumho, there would be no BMW championship, and the tyres are excellent. They are also affordable, unlike those of many rival brands. Those able to run slicks simply love them, and all the drivers appreciate the relatively low wear rate of the Kumho products.”
“The Kumho BMW Championship is a mainstay of our packed calendar,” comments Mark Turner, sporting manager of championship organising club BARC. “The cars are fantastic and the competitors are guaranteed to provide close, entertaining races that are greatly enjoyed by our spectators. We are much looking forward to another good season with this long-standing series.”
John Thrupp, Kumho’s marketing director, adds: “The relationship between Kumho and the BMW Racing Drivers Club has been very successful for both parties, and we remain as keen as ever to support what has long been one of the best of all club championships and which provides a perfect showcase for our brand.”
The 2023 schedule for the 14-round championship is:
- April 8/9 – Brands Hatch Indy
- May 13/14 – Snetterton 30
- June 10 – Castle Combe
- July 8 – Thruxton
- August 12/13 – Donington Park International
- September 16/17 – Silverstone International
- October 14 – Oulton Park International
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