Historic FF1600 set for a transformation in fortunes this year

Historic Formula Ford 1600 is set for a transformation in fortunes this year with 31 entries already received for its Snetterton opener, in contrast to 13 for 2024’s Norfolk visit.

With multiple newcomers already committed for the 26-27 April event – including promising youngsters chasing the Novice Cup initiative – several preparing cars and others set to join at subsequent rounds, the qualifying races of yesteryear could return.

Internal management changes, with former Historic Sports Car Club chairman Chris Sharples taking over the category’s reins, have re-energised racers and expanded the fraternity, largely by driving entry fees down.

There was much work to do when Palliser racer Sharples voluntarily tried to turn things round prior to last July’s Brands Hatch Superprix.

After only 13 competitors had subscribed to Snetterton’s opener, it dropped to 10 at Cadwell Park and was at 14 for Donington Park.

Classic FF1600 sponsor SDC’s pledge to rebate competitors in the pre-1982 championship inadvertently hit Historic FF1600 numbers. Indeed, Benn Simms emerged champion in his Historic Jomo, entered for Snetterton, over a field that averaged 26.

Rising circuit track time costs, ultimately passed on to competitors, also stunted growth, particularly since the coronavirus pandemic.

Greater Historic customer demand, however, has made negotiation of lower entry fees feasible, hence racers will pay £100-£200 less per event in 2025.

“Reducing entry fees has generated momentum and got people talking about HFF again,” said Sharples.

“Six cars changed hands over the winter and more movements are in the pipeline.

“There is a real buzz about it. Apart from many newcomers, competitors returning and bringing cars out of garages after several years, augurs well as we build towards FFord’s 60th anniversary in 2027.

“I feel a sense of overwhelming gratitude to the drivers for entering Snetterton early as a demonstration of intent.”

Among those planning to make series debuts this season are Racing Bulls F1 engineer Andy Boulet (Alexis), Jensen Fennymore in the Merlyn Mk20 of his Historic FF2000 title-winning father Graham, Ed Lillingston-Price and George Townsend (Merlyns) and Gareth Jones in Bill Cowing’s Nike.