British Touring Car Championship outfit Power Maxed Racing (PMR) has suffered a catastrophic setback after a massive fire tore through its Worcestershire headquarters, destroying the entire operation within minutes.
Fire crews from three counties raced to the scene just before midday on Saturday, but despite their efforts, the team’s manufacturing hub, stock, and race facilities were completely gutted. Thankfully, no injuries were reported. The cause of the blaze is still under investigation.
Team owner Adam Weaver described the loss as “20 years of blood, sweat and tears” reduced to ashes, but vowed the team would fight on:
“This fire won’t beat us. We will be back on track and stronger than ever.”
Paddock Solidarity Keeps PMR Racing
In an extraordinary show of sportsmanship, two rival teams have stepped in to ensure PMR can still compete at Knockhill this weekend (16–17 August).
- The Patterson family has loaned the Cupra previously driven by Scott Sumpton.
- Un-Limited Motorsport has stood down its own car – last raced by Stephen Jelley – to allow PMR to field a second entry.
BTCC organisers TOCA granted special approval for the loans without affecting TBL allocations, allowing PMR to continue in the 2025 championship despite the devastating loss.
Looking Ahead
Both replacement Cupras will take to the grid in Scotland as PMR battles to complete the rest of the season. Weaver has confirmed that rebuilding plans are already in motion.
The fire is the latest in a series of challenges for independent BTCC teams this year, but the swift response from rivals highlights the tight-knit nature of the touring car paddock.
