Out Now: The February 2026 Issue
New Season Preparation and Touring Car Retrospectives!
As the winter break draws to a close, the focus shifts back to the pit lane. The February issue of Touring Car Magazine looks at the human and mechanical transitions taking place ahead of the new season, while revisiting the political and commercial history that shaped the sport.
BTCC 2026: Finding the Rhythm
Pre-season testing is less about outright lap times and more about the chemistry between man and machine. We explore how a team “clicks” in the high-pressure weeks leading up to the opening round, some of the things they look for and drivers share their feelings on pre-season testing.
The Super Touring Effect: Shifting the Brand
During the 1990s, manufacturers used the BTCC to do more than just win trophies; they used it to fundamentally redefine their public image. We analyse which brands most effectively used the Super Touring era to move away from “sensible” reputations and which saw the most significant impact on their commercial bottom line.
The Specialist’s Edge: Strategic Gaps on the Grid
Consistency is the key to a title, yet even the most dominant champions have “bogey” tracks. We identify the specific circuits where the grid’s current front-runners historically struggle, highlighting the exact windows of opportunity that a savvy challenger must exploit to take the 2026 crown.
The Ultimate Comeback: Alex Zanardi
We look back at one of the most inspirational chapters in FIA World Touring Car Championship history. Beyond the emotion of his return, we recall the clinical race craft that allowed Alex Zanardi to take his BMW to multiple WTCC victories, proving that elite talent transcends physical adversity.
The Binned-Off Mazda: A TCR Mystery
The Mazda 3 was arguably the most aesthetically striking TCR project ever conceived, yet it remains a footnote in racing history. We investigate the story behind the car’s development and the circumstances that saw the project halted before it ever reached a starting grid.
Rover and Out: The 1983 Controversy
The 1983 season should have been a celebration of Steve Soper’s first British title and Rover’s dominance. Instead, it became a cautionary tale of sporting governance. We revisit the farcical officiating decisions that led to the titles being stripped months after the podium celebrations, effectively ending Rover’s involvement in the championship.
Also Inside:
NEW SERIES: F1 Stars in Tin Tops – Part 1: Damon Hill.
Historic Driver, The Top 10 and Cool Cars
Order Your Copy now!
Print (A5 52 pages): £5 (UK only, includes delivery)
Digital Edition: £1.50
Touring Car Magazine 