Newly-appointed V8 Supercars Chief Executive Officer Martin Whitaker says that his passion for touring car racing is what lured him to the big role at V8 Supercars Australia.

Whitaker, a former director of motorsport at the Ford Motor Company, has held the position of CEO of the Bahrain International Circuit for the past six years, but says that the chance to join rejoin a touring car championship with an international presence was too hard to pass up.

“First and foremost, I’m a great lover of touring car racing,” he told Speedcafe.com.au.

“I ran the British Saloon Car Championship back in the early-mid 80s when it was pretty much on its knees. I hastened to add that I wasn’t the person to turn it around, but I’d like to think that at least I kept it alive!

“I’ve always been a great lover of touring car racing, and I genuinely believe that the V8 Supercars Championship Series is the best touring car championship in the world.

“It’s got some incredibly unique characteristics, its got great heritage, but most importantly, it has got extraordinary depth. The openness and quality of the racing, the media friendliness of the teams and the drivers makes a big difference.”

While he says it’s the best touring car title in the world, he says there’s room to improve.

“It’s got a growing reputation and a reputation it has worked very hard to earn.

”(But) I also think it has got so much more to offer as well.”

Whitaker will finish up his role at the Bahrain Circuit next week at the conclusion of the track’s Formula 1 race, before taking up his position at the Hamilton round of the V8 Supercars in April.

For more with Whitaker CLICK HERE to read this week’s Cafe Chat.