Teenager Thomas Merritt is being tipped for greater success next year after a strong debut season in the BRSCC Fiesta Junior Championship.

Merritt, 15, who competed with Race Car Consultants, finished third in the Mk7 Rookie Championship.

He achieved two podium finishes, including a win in class, and several fastest laps.

The championship took place at iconic circuits across the country including Brands Hatch, Silverstone, Oulton Park, Thruxton, Croft and Snetterton, where Merritt could consistently be found qualifying and racing in the top five.

“Making the transition from karts to cars this year has been a dream come true for me, and I’ve loved every second,” said Merritt, who lives in Kings Hill.

“The racing has been fast, competitive and challenging at times, but I’ve remained focused and continued to develop my experience with every race.

“I’d like to say a huge thank you to Race Car Consultants, especially my mechanics Gary and Ollie, and to all my family, friends, sponsors, and partners who have supported me this year.”

Merritt is working with several industry professionals on his preparation and performance.

This includes Paul Jewiss from Gridshark Athletic Performance (Motorsport Performance Coaching) who have worked with drivers, including F1 stars Juan Pablo Montoya, Nick Hiedfeld, Ralph Firman, and Darren Turner.

Jewiss said: “Following a successful driver assessment, Thomas has entrusted us to review and elevate his training programme.

“We will be looking after Thomas as he prepares for his second season in the BRSCC Fiesta Junior Championship with the primary goal of taking the title.”

In addition, Merritt has teamed up with SIM Motorsport in Rochester and will be spending as much time as possible at the race car simulation centre.

Simon Ricketts, of SIM Motorsport, said: “SIM Motorsport is proud to support such a young talented race driver.

“We pride ourselves in creating future champions, and I do not doubt that Thomas will succeed in winning a title in the near future.”

Merritt is one of only nine young drivers in the UK to have been selected to be part of the FF Corse GT Driver Academy.

He will continue to have access to media training and coaching to help him prepare for next year.

Merritt will be back on the grid in 2025 racing with Race Car Consultants, who believe he will be a championship contender.

David Ellesley, of Race Car Consultants said: “Thomas has had a very strong first season in the Fiesta Junior Championship and has shown why for 2025 he will be returning as a championship contender.

“For drivers like Thomas in their first season of car racing, the main objective for us as a team is to help them understand the different techniques required to get the most from the car.

“Thomas has shown a very positive and professional attitude towards every aspect of the learning process which is a clear indication to us he’s serious about getting to the top step of the podium on a regular basis.

“I am excited for 2025 and to witness his continued progression as a driver and young man.”

Merritt’s first race will take place at Snetterton in April 2025.