Jason Plato has released his first statement following his departure from Plato Racing, after the British Touring Car Championship team entered administration on Monday.
Plato’s eponymous outfit entered administration just days after scoring its maiden BTCC victory at Knockhill, with Adam Morgan and Dan Rowbottom bringing home a 1-2.
On Tuesday, Cataclean and TOCA announced that the team will continue in the series for the remainder of 2026, though without Plato himself.
Arafino Advisory Ltd, Plato Racing Ltd’s administrators, are hoping for a swift sale while Cataclean continues to fund the team in the interim.
Plato’s former squad, now CPRL, will compete in Donington Park GP‘s Race 1 starting from first and second on the grid. The pair of Mercedes A35 Saloons performed excellently in the Race to Pole, coming home with little threat from those behind for the second meeting in a row.
“Earlier this week, I learned that my involvement with the company and the racing operation that I created back in July 2025 had been terminated,” Plato said.
“I was removed from my positions as CEO, Director and Team Principal without warning, explanation or discussion.
“The decision has left me stunned and deeply unsettled.
“My 26-year driving career in the British Touring Car Championship from 1997 to 2022, and my return to the grid with Plato Racing this season after the struggles I faced in retirement, mean the world to me.
“I remain truly grateful for the opportunities, the success, and the relationships formed with sponsors, colleagues, rival teams and, of
course, the fans along the way.
“To establish a brand-new BTCC team from nothing – not a nut, bolt or even a tie-wrap to its name – in under six months, and to secure pole position on our debut at Donington Park, was a significant achievement.
“Against considerable odds the team then delivered exceptionally strong results at Knockhill two weeks ago, taking first and second places in the opening race followed by two further
podium finishes.
“My backing for the team remains absolute, even though I am no longer involved and will not be present at Donington Park this weekend. I hope the drivers and team personnel enjoy a successful race weekend.”
“The warmth shown to me by fellow competitors, long-standing friends, sponsors, the media and fans across motorsport and beyond over recent days has been overwhelming and is truly and deeply valued.
“To have built Plato Racing and contributed to the BTCC for more than twenty-five years remains an important chapter in my life – and that chapter is not over yet.
“Because of the manner of my enforced departure and the impact it has had on both my aspirations and my mental health, I will be making no further public comments on
these matters for the time being.”
Discussion about this post