Ricky Collard makes BTCC return with EXCELR8

Ricky Collard will make a return to the BTCC grid for the 2026 season after being named as the final member of the EXCELR8-run Team VERTU line-up.

Collard will partner defending champion Tom Ingram, Tom Chilton and Nicolas Hamilton in the four-strong entry and will sample the Hyundai i30 Fastback N for the first time during the season launch event taking place today at Brands Hatch.

It will be Collard’s third full season in the BTCC having previously taking part in two campaigns with Speedworks, scoring a best championship finish of eighth in 2023.

Collard has two podium finishes to his name so far, although he missed on out a maiden win at Brands Hatch despite leading at the chequered flag due to a track limits penalty.

“I’m delighted to be returning to the BTCC this season as it’s a championship where I feel I’ve got unfinished business,” he said. “Back in 2023, I picked up some strong results and showed I have the pace to run towards the front of the field, but I missed out on getting the win that I know I’m capable of.

“Winning the British GT title in what was a particularly competitive season allowed me to learn a huge amount, and I feel that I’m coming back into touring cars as a stronger driver and in better shape than ever.

“The opportunity to join forces with the defending champions is one that I had to take, and although this deal has all come together quite late and I won’t have much track time before round one, I’m feeling confident.

“The Hyundai is clearly a very strong package and with the support of Team VERTU behind me, I’m hoping to hit the ground running when we get to Donington Park.”