NAPA Racing UK’s Sam Osborne will retire from the British Touring Car Championship at the end of the 2026 season, concluding eight years in the series after 231 starts.
Osborne, 33, made his début in the 2019 season, spending a year in an MG6 with EXCELR8 Motorsport in the team’s first season in touring cars before moving to race a Honda Civic with MB Motorsport / AmD Tuning in 2020.
A year later, AmD merged with Motorbase Performance and Osborne undertook his first campaign in Ford Focus machinery.
He continued with the outfit ever since, through its first season with NAPA backing in 2022 to 2026. Along the way, Osborne claimed a maiden podium finish at Donington Park in 2023 and a first win at Silverstone in 2025.
His best championship position came in 2024, when he ended the year 15th overall, albeit without any podium visits.
“Motorsport has been a huge part of my life for as long as I can remember, so stepping away from the BTCC hasn’t been an easy decision,” said Osborne.
“However, I feel now is the right time to focus on other opportunities, particularly developing and growing my business, HsO Flow, while also looking forward to starting a family with my partner.
“Looking back, I feel incredibly fortunate to have spent so many years competing in the BTCC, especially the last six years as part of the Alliance Racing family, including four fantastic years representing NAPA Racing UK.
“From my first podium to my maiden race win at Silverstone, there have been some incredible moments and memories that I’ll always be proud of.
“Being part of NAPA Racing UK has been something special, and I’m incredibly grateful for the support and opportunities they’ve given me.
“It’s been a privilege to represent such a fantastic brand and be part of the team’s journey over the last four years.
“Everyone at Alliance Racing has done an amazing job throughout my time with the team, and I can’t thank them enough for their hard work, dedication and support.
“I’ve also made some great friends along the way, both within the team and across the paddock, and those friendships mean just as much as the results on track.
“It’s been an incredible journey, and I’d like to thank all the teams, sponsors, fans, marshals, and especially my family for their continued support over the years.
“Although I’m stepping away from the BTCC for now, motorsport will always be a big part of my life. I’m looking forward to what the future brings, and hopefully I’ll see you all back on track in the future.”
Osborne is the second driver in as many days to announce their retirement from the BTCC, with Tom Chilton also retiring after this weekend.