MAX HALL SET FOR JCW DEBUT AT BRANDS HATCH WITH EXCELR8
Rising star Max Hall will move up into the headline class of the Vertu Motors MINI CHALLENGE this weekend at Brands Hatch after inking a deal with EXCELR8 Motorsport.
The talented teenager has been competing in the Cooper class this season after making the step up from the Junior Saloon Championship, where he secured championship honours in 2022.
Whilst that was a fine feat in itself, it was made all the more impressive that the title win came in Hall’s first season of car racing, with ten wins and 18 podiums from 24 starts.
Despite his relative lack of experience when stepping up to senior competition in a packed Cooper field, Hall showed his potential in stunning fashion at Snetterton during only his second meeting of the year as he fought his way to two race wins.
The following event at Thruxton – the fastest circuit on the calendar – saw him storm to a maiden pole position in the first BTCC meeting of the season, and he would hold the best qualifying average in the field until a tricky session last time out at Silverstone saw him fail to qualify in the top ten for the first time.
With one round of the season left to run, Hall sits inside the top ten in the standings and is firmly in contention for a top-three result in the Rookie Cup, which this season comprises of more than half the field.
Eager to try and step up into the top class next year as he works towards his ultimate goal of racing in the British Touring Car Championship, Hall will use this weekend’s event to gain valuable experience at the wheel of the JCW machine and kickstart his preparations for 2024.
Maximus Hall said:
“My goal is to one day compete in the BTCC and everyone knows that the JCW class is the perfect stepping stone into touring cars. When the chance came along to join the grid at Brands Hatch, I grabbed it with both hands and I can’t wait for the weekend to come along.
“EXCELR8 is a team that has had a huge amount of success in JCWs in the past, and the fact that the team also runs in the BTCC made them the logical choice as I look to move forward with my career.
“There is no pressure on me this weekend in terms of results although as a driver, I’d be lying if I said I wanted to do anything other than win! Realistically, if I can get up towards the podium then it would be brilliant, but it’s all about learning and gaining as much experience as I can.”
Justina Williams, EXCELR8 Motorsport Team Owner, said:
“Considering he is still only 16, Maximus has been hugely impressive in the Coopers this season and we’re delighted to now give him the chance to make his debut in the JCWs this weekend. Although it’s a big step up, there is no doubt that he has the talent behind the wheel and I’m excited to see how he performs.”
