This weekend, Subaru UK steps up in support of the Race of Remembrance (RoR), a powerful motorsport event dedicated to honouring veterans and fostering resilience through racing. Subaru UK’s commitment is shown not only through its sponsorship of a specific race class but also through an extraordinary race-prep project that has seen a crash-damaged Subaru BRZ sports car reborn as an adaptive racing machine for veterans with disabilities.
Held annually, the Race of Remembrance is a 12-hour endurance race culminating on Remembrance Sunday, bringing together teams to race in tribute to the sacrifices of the armed forces. Among this year’s competitors is a team of disabled veterans who will be driving a BRZ rebuilt and modified specifically for the event, allowing the car to be fully controlled using hand-operated adaptations. This effort is part of Subaru UK’s collaboration with Mission Motorsport, an armed forces charity focused on the rehabilitation of injured veterans.
Mission Motorsport’s Vision: Empowering Veterans through Racing
Mission Motorsport has long harnessed the exhilarating, team-focused world of motorsport to provide veterans with a renewed sense of purpose, skills development, and opportunities in the automotive industry. In partnership with organizations like the Royal Foundation and the Ministry of Defence, Mission Motorsport operates initiatives such as ‘Mission Automotive’ to connect veterans with employment and training pathways, helping thousands of service leavers transition into successful automotive careers. The organization’s motto—“Race, Retrain, Recover”—captures its holistic approach to veteran rehabilitation, with motorsport serving as a bridge to recovery and a new career.
For this year’s Race of Remembrance, Mission Motorsport has unveiled the reimagined BRZ in a distinctive livery designed to honour the service members it supports. “This race car, once written off, represents much more than just engineering; it’s a testament to the resilience, adaptability, and the incredible talents within our armed forces community,” shared Mission Motorsport CEO James Cameron. “We’re pushing boundaries to create new opportunities for all involved, regardless of disability. This car is more than a race vehicle—it’s a symbol of empowerment.”
Subaru UK’s Role in Bringing the BRZ Back to Life
Subaru UK’s sponsorship extended well beyond financial backing; the brand provided the technical resources and components needed to rebuild the Subaru BRZ into a competitive, adaptive race car. Modifications included installing a new ECU, rear differential, and components designed specifically for endurance racing. Now, the BRZ stands as a symbol of resilience, mirroring the courage and fortitude displayed by veterans both on and off the track.
“We’re thrilled to have contributed to the preparation and revival of this Subaru BRZ, giving it an exciting second life as a track car,” remarked Lorraine Bishton, Managing Director of Subaru UK. “Supporting Mission Motorsport is an honour for Subaru UK. Their work within the armed forces community is inspirational, and we’re proud to stand beside them as they transform lives through motorsport.”
Race Day and the Path to Recovery
As race day approaches, the veteran team’s participation in RoR represents the culmination of months of training and dedication. The modifications made to the BRZ have been tested rigorously, ensuring it meets the demands of the 12-hour endurance format. The car, a beacon of performance and inclusivity, will allow the drivers to race on equal terms with able-bodied competitors, empowering them to demonstrate their skill and determination.
With Subaru’s adaptive BRZ roaring to life on the track, the Race of Remembrance is set to be an inspiring, heartening occasion. This effort by Subaru UK and Mission Motorsport epitomizes the transformative impact of motorsport, turning a formerly damaged vehicle into a symbol of recovery and showcasing how the automotive industry can lead the way in inclusivity and support for veterans.
