One Motorsport’s Triumphant Return to the BTCC
British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) enthusiasts have been buzzing with anticipation as the Brackley-based team, One Motorsport, has officially announced its return to the series for the 2025 season. The team, which has a storied history of success, had been notably absent from the grid in 2024, causing speculation and concern among fans. However, Steve Dudman, the team’s owner, has quelled these doubts with a confident and enthusiastic confirmation. "It is with the utmost pride and excitement that I can officially confirm that One Motorsport will be making its return to the BTCC grid this season," Dudman stated. He emphasized that the hiatus was a strategic move to strengthen the team’s capabilities rather than a permanent retreat. "When we announced that we would be sitting out the 2024 campaign, I’m sure there were many people that thought we may never be back. However, that never entered my mind – the goal was always to come back stronger than ever."
The Powerhouse Behind the Comeback
One Motorsport’s resurgence is built on a foundation of past success and newfound resilience. The team, previously known as BTC Racing, has a impressive track record with Honda Civic Type R FK8 models, having scored 17 race wins dating back to 2018. This experience and legacy are crucial as the team prepares to re-enter the fray with the Honda Civic Type R machinery. Sources suggest that One may be utilizing the cars raced up to the end of 2022, complemented by later-build FK8s that were initially intended for Team Dynamics. The team’s decision to use TOCA customer engines from M-Sport rather than the bespoke Honda units, which were built by Neil Brown Engineering, is a strategic one. This move aligns with One’s previous approach, as the team used TOCA power before 2023, with those engines being built by Swindon. The combination of familiar, proven machinery and reliable engine technology positions One Motorsport for a competitive comeback.
The Year of Rest and Reboot
While the absence from the 2024 season was challenging, it allowed the team to focus on critical areas of development and investment. Dudman acknowledged the difficulty of watching from the sidelines but affirmed that it was the right decision for the long-term health and success of the team. "It goes without saying that having to watch on from the sidelines last year was difficult but it was the right decision for the team in the long run," he explained. During this year of rest, the team did not idle. Instead, a dedicated and hardworking crew invested significant time and resources into refining their Honda Civics. "The small team that we’ve had working back at base deserve a lot of credit because they’ve put in a tremendous amount of effort to get us to where we are currently," Dudman praised. This period of intensive work and preparation sets the stage for a well-prepared and motivated team in 2025.
Growing the Team for Glory
With the foundation laid, One Motorsport is now focused on expanding its team to recapture its former glory. Dudman highlighted the importance of this growth, noting that the team is putting the finishing touches on what is expected to be a very strong driver line-up. "Now we’re growing that team back to what it was before we took our sabbatical," he said. The team’s commitment to building a robust and competitive roster is a clear indication of their ambitions for the upcoming season. Additionally, One Motorsport is forging new commercial partnerships and strengthening existing ones, which will provide crucial support and resources. This multifaceted approach ensures that the team is well-equipped to face the challenges of the BTCC and vie for top positions.
Expected Leader of the Pack
Josh Cook, a veteran driver who has achieved 16 of his 20 BTCC race wins and four top-six championship finishes with BTC/One’s Honda Civics, is widely expected to lead the driver line-up. Cook’s extensive experience and proven track record make him a natural choice to spearhead the team’s return. His familiarity with the Honda machinery and the team’s dynamics will be invaluable assets. Fans and competitors alike will be watching closely to see how Cook and his new or returning teammates perform, as One Motorsport looks to make a significant impact from the very first race of the 2025 season.
An Exciting Chapter Awaits
The BTCC community is abuzz with excitement as One Motorsport prepares to return. Behind the scenes, the team is working tirelessly to finalize their preparations, ensuring every aspect of their operation is running smoothly. The combination of experienced leadership, proven machinery, and a strong driver line-up promises to make One Motorsport a formidable force in the championship. As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on this team to see if their strategic hiatus has indeed resulted in a stronger and more competitive outfit. For Steve Dudman and his team, this is not just a return but a new chapter in their ongoing quest for BTCC dominance.
