What's changing in BTCC for 2025?

BTCC organisers have announced a number of changes to the rules and regulations for 2025, all with the goal of making the UK’s biggest touring car series more sustainable while providing closer, more dramatic racing from an already thrilling championship, which this year saw Jake Hill take his maiden title in the final event at Brands Hatch. We take a closer look at what’s set to change when we go racing in the new year.  

Introduction of sustainable fuels  

The biggest change for the new season sees the BTCC switch engine technology away from hybrid power in favour of 100% sustainable fuels, as announced by organisers TOCA this year. This will make BTCC the first UK championship to adopt fossil-free fuel for cars, with all components derived from synthetic and biological sources. A big step forward in sustainability, this change also promises to make racing more exciting, with up cars on track up to 55kg lighter while delivering the same power-boost output as in 2024. This change comes into effect at the same time as a 2-year engine freeze for 2025 and 2026, keeping engine development in check and helping cut costs for teams. Big moves in sustainability for BTCC mean it’s leading the pack on motorsport's next chapter.  

Tyre usage  

In 2024, TOCA introduced a new rule which required the top 10 finishers in race one to run their hardest available compound in race two. For 2025, this new rule is being refined following some criticism during this season. Now, it’ll only be the top three finishers who will be required to follow this rule.  

New safety car procedure

Another big change for 2025 will be in how safety car restarts are performed. In a bid to improve racing action while boosting the safety of these rolling restarts, cars are to stop weaving, braking, and accelerating once the lights have been turned off on the safety car. They must then stay no more than two car lengths from the car ahead of them, while the lead car maintains approximately the same speed as the safety car was travelling at until they pass a new ‘restart point’. After crossing this point, designated at each circuit by TOCA between the last corner and start/finish line, the lead car can then resume racing action.  

Qualifying format  

Further changes for 2025 come in the qualifying format. Now, those from Group 1 who don’t get through to the second stage will line up on even grid spots, beside those from Group 2 who didn’t get through, who will in turn line up on odd spots.  

Jack Sears Trophy  

A small tweak to who is eligible for the Jack Sears Trophy will now see both those who have previously won or have scored more than one outright podium not be eligible for the trophy.

BTCC in 2025 is shaping up to be another year packed with wheel-to-wheel racing action as the championship works its way around the UK. Don’t miss out on your chance to see the championship return to the Home of British Motorsport here at Silverstone, 20-21 September. Tickets on sale soon.