Who is the greatest? That’s a question often asked in all areas of sport, including Formula 1.
The naysayers argue you can never have a definitive answer and they’re right, but that’s not the point. It’s a chance to highlight some of the best performers in any given pursuit.
Autosport has turned its attention to the British Touring Car Championship, or British Saloon Car Championship as it used to be known. This list isn’t simply about the best drivers to have competed in the series. It’s also about their success, longevity and impact. We’re looking at the drivers who set the benchmark in the BTCC and/or helped make it what it is.
Prior to 1991, the BTCC had many star performers in the smaller-capacity classes behind the battles up front. Such drivers have been considered, but emphasis has been placed on outright success, which helps to explain the absence of three-time champion Win Percy and multiple class topper John Fitzpatrick, both of whom were rightly regarded as among the finest touring car drivers in the world.