A Wiltshire College & University Centre Motorsport student has taken a huge step forward in her fledgling career in the sport after being signed to a professional racing team.
Rachel Robertson, who studies Level 3 Motorsport Engineering at the Chippenham campus, has been selected to join the new Radical Racing Rebels team for the 2025 Radical Cup UK season.
The 17-year-old earned her selection after being chosen from a competitive pool of more than 50 talented applicants from the Wera Tools British Kart Championships.
At the recent selection day held at Bedford Autodrome, Robertson emerged as a standout candidate among six finalists, impressing a judging panel comprised of representatives from Radical Motorsport and Wera Tools UK.
Rachel explained: “I got into motorsport quite late as it wasn’t really something my family was into, but I always loved driving and cars, and I persuaded my parents to take me karting at our local indoor track when I was 14. I loved it and I was very quick. One thing led to another and after less than two years I was racing at the British Kart Championships, competing against some of the best young drivers in the world.
“I’m really enjoying my course at Wiltshire College & University Centre. It's a perfect fit for my ambitions on and off track. Understanding how the car works definitely helps me to drive it faster.
“It’s a dream come true to have this opportunity in the Radical Cup. I’m incredibly grateful to Radical Motorsport and Wera Tools UK for believing in me and providing this chance to develop my racing career. I can’t wait to get started and make the most of every lap.”
Robertson is originally from Edinburgh but relocated south this September in order to start her course at WCUC and currently lives on campus at Lackham.
She only launched her racing career in 2022 but has quickly proven herself as one of the most promising young drivers on the British karting circuit. Competing in some of the UK’s premier karting events, she has consistently showcased her skill, focus, and competitive spirit against top racers of her age, solidifying her status as a rising star in British motorsport.
Nicole Van der Walt, Motorsport Manager UK & ROW at Radical Motorsport, said: “We are beyond excited to welcome Rachel to the Radical Racing Rebels team, her natural talent, coupled with her drive and dedication, make her an exceptional choice, and we are confident she will make an impact in the 2025 season.”
The Radical Cup UK, known for nurturing and developing emerging drivers, serves as an ideal platform for racers seeking a pathway into GT, single-seater, or prototype sports car racing. With Wera Tools UK’s support and Radical Motorsport’s expertise, the Radical Racing Rebels initiative provides a crucial steppingstone, enabling young drivers to gain experience in a competitive environment that prepares them for the rigors of higher-level motorsport.
Sam Williamson, Lecturer in Motorsport Engineering at WCUC, said: “We are all really thrilled that Rachel has been given this opportunity as she has clearly got a huge passion for motorsport. Rachel has been an excellent student since starting at the college in September and has already shown real focus on achieving the best results in her studies.”
WCUC offers Motorsport Engineering courses at post-16 and university level. For more information, visit www.wiltshire.ac.uk/our-departments/motorsport-engineering.
PICTURE: RADICAL MOTORSPORT
