Blundell announces retirement from racing following BTCC comeback

Ex-Formula 1 driver and one-time 24 Hours of Le Mans winner Mark Blundell has announced his retirement from racing.

Blundell, 53, made his full-time return to motorsport in 2019 with an entry to the British Touring Car Championship, linking up with the AmD Essex-run TradePriceCars.com team.

The 1992 Le Mans winner scored five points through his comeback season, recording a best finish of 15th at Silverstone.

In a post on his Instagram account, Blundell announced that he would not be returning to the BTCC for the 2020 season and confirmed he would be hanging up his helmet to focus on his management agency.

“Time to let the cat out of the bag and sign off from my racing career,” Blundell wrote. “For thirty years I’ve given it my all behind the wheel, met the most amazing people and enjoyed moments I’ll never forget. Last year’s BTCC adventure was exactly that and I loved the challenge of getting back behind the wheel... can’t be too many grandads who have competed in the BTCC!

“2020 is a huge year ahead for all the drivers at MB Partners along with the next stage in the growth of the agency. And who knows... I might still be found in the BTCC paddock this year one way or another.

“Too many people to thank along the way, but to my family and friends and partners/sponsors a massive thank you! Also a big thank you must go to all the fans whose support helped me keep my foot in when the going got tough!”