Matt Cotton all set for return to British Rally Championship

Matt Cotton is set to fly again in the British Rally Championship

After a break of over 3 years from international rallying, Cornish rally driver Matt Cotton will return to the British Rally Championship (BRC) in 2012. The purchase of an ex Elfyn Evans Ford Fiesta ST has enabled Matt to end his sabbatical from driving by entering both the BRC and the Fiesta Sporting Trophy.

Britain’s premier series starts on the Rallye Sunseeker in February and the Two Wheel Drive format has been designed to attract the best rising talents in British and European Rallying.

Matt said; “There’ll be some fierce competition in the BRC and Fiesta Trophy this year, but I think my past experience will enable me to set some consistent times. It’s a massive challenge, but I really can’t wait to get back behind the wheel”.

Adding to the challenge will be the fact that Matt’s new car is left hand drive and he has never driven one of those in anger before. “I don’t think holiday hire cars count, but I’ve been loaned a left hand drive recce car that I’ll be able to use in between events, so I don’t think it’ll be a major problem.”

Matt`s last outing in the BRC was in 2008 with a Citroen C2R2 in which he placed 3^rd overall in the Cup. As with many privateers, Matt has had to struggle to find the required finances to complete the entire season. He says; “It’s always been tough to find a budget to compete, let alone in the British Rally Championship, but it’s what I love so it’s just a case of working hard with our sponsors and making sacrifices in other areas of my life.

For 2012, Matt will be co-driven by long time friend Glyn Thomas from North Somerset. Although they have only competed together once before; Glyn has been no stranger to the BRC structure over the last 4 years. He also brings additional support from his Rally Collection UK business, a technical partner of the team.

The Fiesta will be prepared and run by AVS Motorsport and Colin Ridgeway Motorsport in Wrexham who plan to also enter the BRC in the Teams Cup.

To keep up to date with Matt`s progress throughout the year, to read his blog which will be updated both on and off events and to see what technical and corporate partner opportunities are available with the team, simply visit www.mattcottonrallying.co.uk

You can also find us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for up to the minute news and information on Matt`s progress through the year.

Watch out for more from Matt right here on Overdrive!