VW CUP MAN WYLIE IS AWARDED BRDC RISING STAR STATUS

Ross Wylie's career is on an upward spiral. Photo: www.jakobebrey.com

Promising Scottish driver Ross Wylie has become the first competitor from the APR Volkswagen Racing Cup to be awarded ‘Rising Star’ status by the British Racing Drivers Club. The accolade, rarely given to drivers beyond the world of single-seater racing, is not only recognition of the Dumfries driver’s talent but also a valuable career boost.

Ross, who turns 22 on Sunday (15 Sep), has won two VW Cup rounds at the wheel of his SlideSports-prepared Scirocco in his maiden season and holds sixth in the championship as it heads towards its final rounds next month at Donington Park.

He was scouted by a member of the Rising Stars panel and called to Silverstone last week for a meeting, and subsequently invited to become a Rising Star. Provided his career continues with upward momentum, Wylie can stay on the scheme for two years. “The BRDC must have been monitoring my race performances this year and has recognised me as a promising talent,” said Wylie. “I am honoured to be selected and it means so much to me to be a part of such a famous club – one that helped to put Lewis Hamilton on track to success.”

SlideSports team manager Mark Jenkins added: “Ross is a true professional and we are so pleased to be a part of his motorsport education. I believe that he has what it takes to go all the way, and the BRDC obviously agrees.”

Wylie also contests the German-based Volkswagen Scirocco R-Cup, and is fifth in the junior category. He is in action this weekend at Oschersleben: “I’m looking forward to going back there. It’s the first time on the calendar where I have driven on the circuit before. I first drove there at the selection process last November, and then at two-day pre-season test five months ago. It certainly won’t be easy but I want to continue my momentum from the Nürburgring and hopefully make another step forward.”