Meet Thomas Merritt

Spotlight: Thomas Merritt – From Karting Champion to Car Racing Contender

At just 15 years old, Thomas Merritt has already made impressive strides in British motorsport. With a racing journey that began in karting at age 10 and a family heritage rooted in racing, Thomas is now carving his path in car racing, competing in the BRSCC Fiesta Junior Championship with his eyes set on a career in GT and endurance motorsport.

A Family Passion Turned Personal Mission

Thomas’s love for racing was almost destined. Born into a motorsport-loving family—his parents met while working at Brands Hatch—he was surrounded by racing from the start. His passion blossomed early, and by 2019 he began karting at Buckmore Park, where he quickly proved to be a standout talent.

Karting Successes and Milestones

Thomas competed in multiple seasons of karting, beginning with his rookie season at Buckmore Park where he achieved multiple wins. He later moved to Bayford Meadows, securing more victories in 2021, and went on to become:

• 2022 BMJC Champion, finishing on the podium in every round with 5 overall wins
• 2023 Vice Champion in both the TKZ Winter and Southern Championships, missing the title by just one point

He began in TKZ’s Cadet Series and quickly progressed to the Junior category, demonstrating rapid pace and strong consistency. These experiences laid a strong foundation for his transition to car racing.

Transition to Car Racing

In 2024, Thomas made his debut in the BRSCC Fiesta Junior Championship with Race Car Consultants, competing in all eight rounds. Despite a tough first race weekend at Silverstone that ended in a double DNF—first due to mechanical issues, then due to a driving error—he rebounded with confidence and performance:

• 3rd in the Mk7 Rookie Championship
• 5th in the Mk7 Championship
• 6th overall, with two podium finishes, including a win in the Mk7 class, and multiple fastest laps

A standout moment of his season came at Croft, where he claimed his first podium in extremely challenging weather conditions. With most drivers opting for dry tyres, Thomas and his team made the bold choice to run wets, which paid off as he battled through to secure a podium.

Looking Ahead to 2025

In 2025, Thomas will return to the BRSCC Fiesta Junior Championship with Race Car Consultants, aiming to be a championship contender. With experience now under his belt and confidence on the rise, he is fully focused on delivering race wins and consistent top finishes.

Esports and Driver Development

When Thomas isn’t on the track, he is refining his racecraft through sim racing. With an A-Class iRacing license and an iRating above 4,000, he regularly competes in IMSA events to build his understanding of GTP and GT car dynamics. Sim racing plays a crucial role in his development, helping him understand setups, improve lap times, and stay sharp between real-world races.

He also uses his simulator every night as part of his structured driver training.

Physical and Mental Preparation

Thomas trains 3-4 times per week in the gym, combining strength and cardio training to target motorsport-specific muscle groups such as the neck, core, and shoulders. He also enjoys getting outdoors to stay active and maintains a healthy diet.

For mental preparation, Thomas has partnered with Rachel Burkill, a sports psychology graduate. They share a mutual passion for motorsport and have developed a strong working relationship. Their regular sessions focus on improving focus, managing nerves, and building a winning mindset.

Mentors and Coaching

In addition to Rachel, Thomas has worked with highly experienced driver coaches including:

• Ryan Lindsay
• Phil Bennett
• Charles Rainford

Each has played a role in shaping Thomas’s racecraft and providing technical feedback as he continues to grow in motorsport.

Giving Back and Building a Brand

Thomas also believes in using his platform to give back. He has partnered with KSS (Kent, Surrey, Sussex) Air Ambulance, raising awareness and using his reach to support their life-saving mission.

He is also an Ambassador for SIM Motorsport, the UK’s leading race car simulation centre, and one of only nine drivers in the UK selected to join the FF Corse GT Driver Academy.

His sponsors and partners include:

• The Event Safety Company
• Fastwarm
• Integral, a marketing agency that has helped build the Thomas Merritt Racing (TMR) brand and website

Long-Term Ambitions

Thomas’s dream is to build a professional career in GT and endurance motorsport. He draws inspiration from drivers like Kévin Estre, admiring his racecraft, consistency, and success in endurance racing. With a proven record of resilience, adaptability, and dedication, Thomas is on the right path to achieving those ambitions.

Follow Thomas Merritt’s Journey

With championship titles, a growing presence in car racing, and a dedication to both physical and mental development, Thomas Merritt is one of the UK’s most exciting young prospects in motorsport.

📲 Website: thomasmerrittracing.com
📸 Instagram: @thomaswmerritt_racing
🔗 LinkedIn: Thomas Merritt
▶️ YouTube: @tommerritt_12
🎮 TikTok: @tommerritt12
📘 Facebook: Thomas Merritt