NEWS // SEAT ANNOUNCES WITHDRAWAL FROM WTCC (UPDATED)

Two time World Touring Car champions SEAT Sport confirmed their exit from the global touring car series today after announcing that they would no longer be participating in the FIA championship.

With a complete restructuring of the manufacturer’s motorsport strategy, the Spanish squad will now focus their motorsport input towards customer support in different categories, but "Independent" teams using their cars in the WTCC will be "top priority" said Seat boss Jaime Puig... [read more]

With 30 WTCC race victories and two title success’s the Spanish manufacturer leaves the series having achieved it's objectives along with being the first brand ever to win a championship with a diesel engine. Several Independent teams are set to use either the petrol powered or the TDI version of the title winning Leon in 2010.

Stop Press: There is however a chance that the Spanish squad could return for 2011 when sweeping rule changes are set to be introduced to the series. An official spokesman commented " For 2011 we will have to see, a decision on this matter will be made during the coming season".

Photo/Editorial: Neil Tozer