Ben Bargwanna has confirmed he will return to the TCR Australia series in 2022, again racing a Peugeot 308 TCR run by Garry Rogers Motorsport, as his father Jason Bargwanna confirms he will step back from racing.
Ben Bargwanna made his TCR Australia début in 2021, and the youngster went on to finish tenth overall in the drivers’ championship standings, having finished all bar one race.
He also ultimately pipped his father Jason by just seven points, with Jason Bargwanna now having confirmed he will take on a Team Manager role and act as a mentor for Ben.
Bargwanna will continued to be backed by Burson Auto Parts, and can also rely on the support of GRM in running the car, as in 2021.
“I learnt a lot last year and as the season went on the results started to build,” said Ben, who was also the top-placed rookie in the standings last year.
“We set and achieved some clear goals for 2021, finishing races, podium results, rookie of the year and then to get my first pole position at Bathurst was a real bonus.
“I love racing these TCR cars and challenging the best young drivers in the country, and some older experienced drivers as well.
“It was a real eye opener stepping up to this level of competition, but I have the confidence, a great team and partners, and we know we can hold our own in this field.
“For 2022 we want to challenge for regular top fives, take podiums and win races.”
Ben’s father Jason believes his son can emerge as genuine title contender in 2022.
“The program has come together perfectly over the last two seasons with the support from our partners in Burson Auto Parts,” said Jason Bargwanna.
“Their continued commitment into the new season allows us to all move to the next stage and challenge for the title.
“I made the earlier statement that my fishing leave wasn’t far away, but I find that I am really enjoying this campaign.
“Ben has shown that he has improved and he became stronger during last season. His on-track decision making and off track work ethic led to some great speed and strong results.
“I am extremely proud of his journey, and I am excited to focus our attention and resources on Ben to allow him to mount a truly competitive campaign.
“Who knows, should we get a co-driver race in TCR Australia, we already have one in stock!
“I will still be heavily involved in the program both on and off the track. This year’s TCR championship looks to be the most competitive ever and the whole Burson Auto Parts race team is chomping at the bit and ready to rise to the challenge.”
TCR Australia gets underway at Symmons Plains Raceway this weekend (11 – 13 February).