Motorbase Performance retains Jackson for 2018

Mat Jackson will remain with Motorbase Performance for a ninth consecutive season as the Ford outfit finalises its line-up for the 2018 British Touring Car Championship campaign.

The 36-year old finished eighth in drivers' championship last season and added to his victory tally with a solitary win during the third Croft race.

Jackson will line up alongside new Motorbase recruit Tom Chilton in a two-car championship assault.

Buoyed by his driver line-up alongside the arrival of the team's brand new Ford Focus RS challenger, Motorbase Team Principal Dave Bartrum believes his squad are about to embark on their strongest BTCC campaign to date.

"I’m really happy to continue with Mat alongside Tom this season, it’s a very strong line-up," said Bartrum.

"Mat has helped us get the car to where it is now and has been with us from the start of our NGTC journey so it seems fitting for him to join Tom in what should be our strongest campaign to date with the new Focus RS."

Jackson echoed Bartrum's sentiments as the 31-time BTCC race winner continues his quest for a maiden drivers' title.

"It’s great to be back with Motorbase and Team Shredded Wheat with Gallagher for another crack at the Championship. I’m looking forward to it immensely," said Jackson.

“I know that the guys have been hard at work over the winter to improve the pace of the car and there’s been a huge amount of hard work that’s gone in from their side.

“We’ve got a whole new set up this year with the RS and a new team-mate in Tom on-board for the season. It’s going to be an exciting season, and we’re hopeful that the changes will put us in good stead to battle for the BTCC title this year.”