The Motorbase are bringing together the old and the new for their 2017 campaign, adding two very different drivers to their three car team. Martin Depper will switch from Eurotech to the new Shredded Wheat branded team, whilst Luke Davenport takes the step up from British GT after running with Ginetta for most of his career.
The duo will join already announced Mat Jackson at the new look team as Motorbase aim to build on their successful 2016 BTCC season.
“This season is arguably our biggest yet in the BTCC,” said team principal David Bartrum. “Having signed a multi-year deal with household brand, Shredded Wheat, as well as continuing with our key partners from last season – DUO & IKO Enertherm – our focus is very much on our long term plan.
“After securing our first BTCC titles in 2016, we have one clear aim for 2017 and that’s the overall title. Its fantastic to have Mat back for his eighth season and his return is key to us mounting a successful championship challenge this year. We now have a formidable trio with Martin and Luke joining him and have three drivers who we would very much like to continue with us beyond the 2017 season.”
Depper, who has three years experience in the BTCC, started testing with the team in November of last year. The 48-year-old has a best finish of fifth at Thruxton last year, and finished 21st overall in the championship. He hopes joining Motorbase will be the start of his best year in the BTCC to date.
“When I tested the Focus back in November, I quickly found pace in tricky conditions, so I’m really looking forward to carrying that forward and making my fourth season in the BTCC my best yet,” Depper said. “I’m also really excited to be partnering Mat and Luke as I’m sure we will work well together and show real strength in our team work.”
One of Shredded Wheat’s wishes for the team when they joined Motorbase was fresh blood. Motorbase delivered that in the form of Luke Davenport, who will be making his BTCC debut in April.
Davenport is no stranger to the TOCA package, having raced in one of the Ginetta championships that support the BTCC, including the Ginetta GT4 Super Cup back in 2014. The 23-year-old has already begun impressing his new boss during test sessions.
“His pace is without question and I’m sure he will be making waves as soon as the flag drops at Brands Hatch,” Bartum said. “His approach during his initial test impressed us from the start and his driving ability and detail both in and out of the car was the best we’ve seen for a long time, so we’re really looking forward to his showing.”
“I had an opportunity through Duo at the end of 2016 to test the car with the Motorbase guys and here we are now,” Davenport explained at Autosport International this morning. “I think it’s going to be a big unknown for me but I’ve got absolute belief in myself. I’ve come up through single make racing which is the best preparation that could be there. And you’ve seen other drivers that have competed in the SuperCup go on to compete in the top of touring cars. I know I can do it and I’m going to prove it to everyone out there.”
