Toyota Gazoo Racing UK parts ways with Andrew Watson

The Speedworks Motorsport-run Toyota Gazoo Racing UK team and driver Andrew Watson have reached a mutual agreement to part ways following the 2024 British Touring Car Championship season.

Watson, 29, joined the team at the start of the year for his second season in the BTCC, bringing high hopes of challenging further up the order.

But after clinching two outright podiums in his maiden season in 2023, the 2024 season proved to be a disappointment, as Watson failed to reach the rostrum once – the only Toyota driver to not score a podium – and he only improved on his 2023 classification by one place.

The Northern Irishman thus leaves a vacant seat at the Cheshire-based team.

“First and foremost, I would like to thank Andrew for all his efforts with Toyota Gazoo Racing UK this year,” said Team Principal Christian Dick.

“He has been a great guy to have in the team and worked well with Rob [Huff – team-mate] to help develop the Corolla.

“Ultimately, the anticipated results didn’t materialise for a variety of reasons, and following some post-season discussions, we have all agreed it is in everybody’s best interests to have a fresh start. We wish Andrew all the very best.”

Andrew Watson didn’t reveal anything about his future plans, but thanked the team for their support in 2024.

“The season obviously didn’t yield the results we all wanted, which is a shame,” said Watson, whose best finish was fifth this year. “At the time, it was the obvious progression to move from an independent team to a manufacturer-backed entry.

“Due to various reasons, we didn’t operate at the level needed to fight at the front in the BTCC, but I wish everybody at Speedworks well moving forward.

“A real positive from the year has been the continued relationships and memories together with my great sponsors and partners, without whom, none of this is possible – so I’d like to re-iterate my thanks to them.”