Quote:
Originally Posted by BLiTZ
(I'm sure someone will shoot me down, but here goes...) Team Dynamics, after years campaigning the Civic EP3, Integra DC5 and Civic FN they eventually gained Honda UK's support to become Honda Racing.
*Pulls pin and runs for cover*
|
I'm not saying I disagree - if anyone has earned manufacturer support the Team Dynamics probably fit the bill more than anyone else.
I feel though that it is more of Honda spotting a marketing opportunity, with a team already committed to entering the BTCC with their marque.
Quote:
Originally Posted by auroan
Nope..... I'd say 888 with the Vectra, and RML with SEAT. That in my eyes was the last time we had true manufacturer supported teams.
|
How did 888 'earn' their manufacturer support, when their debut was as a manufacturer having been formed specifically to run Vauxhall's motorsport?
IMO, 2008 was the last season of full works entries with SEAT's withdrawal signaling the end. After this, the manufacturer entries (including most recently PMR/Vauxhall and BMR Subaru) are all a marketing and sponsorship partnership rather than the manufacturer deciding to enter motorsport.
That is the way BTCC is nowadays, and it is more healthy as a result. Many other series are damaged by a limited number of manufacturer entries, who then hold a series to ransom when they are not getting the results they hoped for.