Inspiring British racing driver Charlie Martin has joined ROKiT MB Motorsport in a Development Driver role in the Kwik Fit British Touring Car Championship: she will test the team's BMW 330e M Sport as the series enters its hybrid era.
Jade Edwards broke a 15-year hiatus for women in British premier's touring car championship BTCC in 2020, as she entered a one-off round at Silverstone before securing a full-time seat in 2021. W Series driver and Aston Martin F1 Team development driver Jessica Hawkins also entered two rounds last year, with more women climbing the ladder of the most competitive championships in the world.
And among the drivers aiming for a seat is British racer Charlie Martin, who has been announced as Official Development Driver for ROKiT MB Motorsport.
The deal is part of the partnership with transport robotics leading firm ek robotics.
Martin has significant experience in GT and endurance racing, including the Nurburgring 24H at the Nordschleife, NLS and ADAC GT4 Germany.
IN 2021, Martin raced part time in ADAC GT4 with Team Driverse, as well as claimed class victory at Silverstone alongside three further podiums in the Britcar Endurance Championship.
“I’m really excited to team up with ROKiT MB Motorsport alongside my valued partners, ek robotics,” said Charlie. “The BTCC is the UK’s most prestigious racing championship so it is a real privilege to work with one of its most successful outfits. To be given the opportunity to work with the team and get behind the wheel is a fantastic opportunity for me."
A BMW specialist, Martin will start a testing program with the BMW 330e M Sport machine, as BTCC enters its hybrid era.
“I’d like to say a huge thank to everyone at ek robotics. This is a brilliant opportunity and they’ve helped to make it possible – it’s a pleasure to work with them and I’m really pleased to continue that partnership with this exciting news.”
Team owner and former F1 driver Mark Blundell is also managing another talented woman – DTM's Esmee Hawkey.
“We’re delighted to welcome Charlie and ek robotics to the team" – he said. "Charlie is a true professional and her new role with her in the team will help as she explores future on-track opportunities as well."
"Empowering a diverse and inclusive culture in our team is very important to me and I know that is a passion which ek robotics share equally. Together we are delighted to be opening up this opportunity for Charlie to help take the next step in her career. Charlie is a truly inspirational character and her ambition and enthusiasm will be a great asset to the team.”