Press Releases - UK #1 Guy Wellington Retires

UK #1 Guy Wellington Retires

In an unexpected announcement. Britains most successful driver to date retires whilst on top form. We spoke with Guy in a Q&A to get the story behind the decision...

So Guy, you're highly competative in Indy Jr. Top 3 in your recent Custom Series and you won at home in Thruxton just yesterday. Why this decision? Why now?

"For me this feels like the right time. I can't help but think I've peaked last season taking 2nd in Indy Jr Intl and taking three Custom Championship titles. Not to mention rising to #22 in the World. I'll see out this season in Indy Jr unmanaged while my manager takes on a new British rookie who I hope will get off to a flying start!"

You've tallied some impressive numbers, including 46 race wins and 177 podiums in your 550 career races. That's a fraction under 33% of your races on the podium. What achievement are you most proud of?

"Pffff, I'd have to say my latest Custom Championship title towards the end of last season. After 4 straight DNF finishes I went into the last weekend in 4th, I pulled out the perfect two races to take the title by just two points! This and spending over three seasons as UK#1 and steadily increasing the margin to team-mate Miguel Baines"

What do you make of the new lad your manager is taking on?

"Ray Striver is a great kid, looks like he's going to be quick out the blocks. Plus he has the luxury of a significant archive of setups to work from". This is partly why I'm retiring now, to give Ray a headstart in training this season and hopefully push for an F3 title next season".

I hear Striver has been set a challenge by Adamski?

"Haha, yeah. Adamski wanted to see Ray Striver and Guy Wellington in the National Ranking Top 5 at the same time... So he's got a hefty 2,000.000 or so rating to accumulate in a short time. I had a great season last year so it will almost certainly result in a ratings plummet this season.

Guy. Its been a pleasure! Here's hoping Ray Striver beats all of your records!

And Adamski, new driver. New chassis?

"Yes actually, Guy and I had a lot of success with a MYG/HON chassis. Ray Striver's style will likely differ and so after a lot of research we're commited to an ART/HON car from the outset. We'll see how this works out".

And finally, Ray Striver! What are you looking out for early on? Do you have any realistic goals?

"We're looking closely at the new driver partnership from iHealy. He's the same age as me and we'll surely be evenly matched. Realistically we're not looking to achieve much this season. My high-end goal would be to take a race win or two in Rookie Series, but otherwise I'll be busy learning the new car.