PUTTING SPORT IN PERSPECTIVE
Anyone who has seen the news over the last two weeks will realise that there are more pressing problems facing the world right now than simply trying to stop a stopwatch more effectively than another competitor. Russian competitors across all branches of the sporting sphere have come under scrutiny and each discipline has taken its own steps to show solidarity with Ukraine and its people. Motorsport UK has taken a leading approach by barring Russian and Belarus participants and its swift and decisive action is something that has drawn universal praise. F1’s decision to rip up its contract to race in Russia means grand prix racing has turned its back on a lucrative deal. Some things mean way much more than money, and it is heartening to see the level of support for the people of Ukraine that is evident.
In this special issue of Motorsport News, we look at ways potential drivers can get involved in motorsport throughout the broad spectrum of different categories that are on offer.
As a reader of MN, you are probably involved in the sport or, at least, have a strong working knowledge of how it operates. But for the rookie, the myriad options can be somewhat daunting.
Across each of the areas we have highlighted, there is a common piece of advice which permeates all of them, and that is to go and speak to a competitor. Everyone who is involved in motorsport loves to chew over its complexities and share a passion, and that is something to be remembered when a novice might make an approach. It is in all of our interests to spread the word of motorsport as far and wide as we can, and it is something that will help encourage the next generation.
Also in Motorsport News this week, we look back at the colourful and varied world of one-make racing in the UK. Even from the unlikely sporting thrills of the Renault 5TS through to the powerhouse that was the TVR Tuscan Challenge. David Addison investigates some of the big successes – and some of the more spectacular failures.
Reporter Nick Garton on page 40 looks ahead to the start of the BTRDA Rally Series, and we also include all the action from the opening round of the Scottish Rally Championship.
And finally, don’t forget to get involved in the latest Motorsport News poll as we set out to uncover our readers’ favourite rally machine. We have printed our shortlist of
10 on pages 38-39. Check them out and have your say by visiting the fastcar.co.uk website. Get pondering!