Two-time Mini Challenge champion Tom Ovenden is set to graduate to the British Touring Car Championship for the 2027 season with Excelr8 Motorsport. The 22-year-old continues his journey with the same organization where he secured the BTCC-supporting Mini crown in both 2025 and 2026, and where he served as the reserve and development driver for the team’s Hyundai i30 N Fastbacks this year.
Stepping Up to the Elite Grid
Ovenden takes over the second seat supported by Excelr8’s BTCC title sponsor Vertu. This position opened up when veteran driver Tom Chilton decided to retire from professional racing. The newcomer will now race alongside two-time BTCC champion Tom Ingram wearing the colors of the automotive giant. This development impacts Ricky Collard, who delivered a strong 2026 campaign with Excelr8 but faced budget challenges and sought a Vertu-funded drive.
Originally from Kent near Lydden Hill, Ovenden started in motocross before transitioning to rallycross, following his father Tristan. He secured the British Junior Rallycross title in 2020 before moving to circuit racing with Excelr8 in 2021 within the Mini Challenge’s entry-level Trophy series, winning that specific championship in 2023.
Reflecting on the milestone, Ovenden stated, “This really is one of those dream-come-true moments.” He added, “All the more special because of the fact that I’m joining the grid with the same team that I’ve been part of since I was 16 and took my first steps into circuit racing.”
Discussing his expectations, Ovenden noted, “When I joined Excelr8 in the Mini Cooper, my goal was always to get to touring cars but I never imagined that things would go the way they have done. It’s mental to think that I’m going to be a BTCC driver!” He further explained, “I know and trust Excelr8 and the people in the team and, in Tom Ingram, I have the perfect team-mate to learn from during my rookie season. I have no idea what to expect when it comes to results, but I know I’m going to have a good car underneath me and one of the best teams behind me. The Jack Sears Trophy will be an obvious aim, and if I could push for a podium finish then it would be amazing.”
Team Lineup and Preparation
Excelr8 has confirmed three drivers for its four-car Hyundai lineup for 2027, which also includes Ginetta Junior graduate Noah Young moving directly into the BTCC.
Having already tested the Hyundai in his capacity as reserve and development driver, Ovenden is scheduled to commence his pre-season testing program after the New Year.
