GRAVES MOTORSPORT CONFIRMS FIVE-CAR COOPER LINE-UP

Graves Motorsport can today announce a five-strong driver line-up for the 2024 Vertu MINI CHALLENGE Trophy season as it bids to reclaim the title it won with Nelson King back in 2022.

Alex Solley, James Black, Alex Keens and Frankie Taylor will all return having been part of the Graves assault on the highly-competitive class last year, with young rookie Leo Purches completing the line-up.

Solley is the highest-placed returning driver on the grid having taken fourth in the standings last season, making him one of the early favourites for the title this time around.

“I’m over the moon to be back in the MINI Challenge Trophy with Graves Motorsport after last year’s strong performances,” he said. “I hope we can make more progress this year and enjoy our best season yet.”

Black took multiple rookie class wins last season to finish eighth overall, one spot ahead of Keens who would end the year with a maiden victory in the final event at Brands Hatch.

Taylor meanwhile was a consistent top-ten finisher and will now bid to fight for overall podium finishes whilst Purches steps up into the series from karting aged just 16, and is set to be the youngest driver on the grid.

“Retaining four drivers from last season puts the team in a great position to fight for overall honours again this season,” team manager Sam Pearce said.

“After narrowly missing out last year we have one goal in mind and plenty of drivers capable of achieving championship success.

“Alex and Alex both won last season, James was a regular contender for top ten positions and Frankie had a great year developing with us, taking his best finish in fifth. Leo is joining an experienced team with fantastic team-mates who will help his forward progress. We are looking forward to starting the season at Snetterton this weekend.”