JORDAN KERRIDGE JOINS JCW GRID WITH EXCELR8

Jordan Kerridge will make his debut in the headline JCW class of the Vertu Motors MINI CHALLENGE this season after signing up with EXCELR8 for the 2023 campaign.

The 26-year-old will embark on his first full season of racing having taken his first steps into competition last season, which included an outing with EXCELR8 in the Cooper class at Brands Hatch during the final weekend of the year.

Known for his YouTube channel ‘That Martini Guy’ – where he offers information on crypto trading – Kerridge is the latest driver to confirm his place on the JCW grid, and will be coached by former MINI CHALLENGE racer Max Bird.

“I always dreamed of being a racing driver when I was young but it wasn’t something that my parents could afford, and I quit school at 16 to get a job and try and save the money to race,” he said. “The job wasn’t the right one, so I decided to leave, invested in cryptocurrency and made a significant profit. I now run a successful cryptocurrency trading and media company, and having always had the goal of going racing, now it’s time to live the dream!

“Getting my first taste of racing last year was great fun, and I can’t wait to get started in the JCW this season. Having bought the car that Max Bird raced in the series, I’ll be working with him to improve my driving and race craft, and I feel my time in the car so far has gone well. Speed doesn’t seem to be a problem, and the focus now is on being consistent and learning how to set the car up properly.

“I’m not sure what to expect from the season but I plan to share my journey on my YouTube channel to show people that no matter what your background may be, you make your own luck in life and that taking risks can produce rewards – much like in racing. Hopefully I can inspire some people to have belief, and to try and achieve their dreams.”

Team owner Justina Williams was quick to welcome Kerridge into the team.

“Although Jordan doesn’t have as much on-track experience as a number of his rivals, there is no doubting his determination to succeed, and we’re delighted to welcome him into the team for his first full season of racing,” he said.

“He was able to show glimpses of what he can do in tricky conditions when he joined the Cooper grid at Brands Hatch back in the autumn, and with guidance from Max during the season ahead, it will be fascinating to see how he progresses in his first year at this level.”