Radical Racing Rebels - The Story So Far…

As we reach the halfway point of the Fine Cut Radical Cup UK, it's the perfect time to reflect on the season so far for our Radical Racing Rebels, Rachel Robertson and Hamish Forrest.

Announced in November and December respectively, Rachel and Hamish were selected from a pool of over 50 talented applicants from the Wera Tools British Kart Championships to join the Radical Racing Rebels Team. Their race seats - and their participation in the wider development programme - are the result of a collaboration between Radical Motorsport and Wera Tools UK. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to supporting young talent and bridging the gap from karting to car racing.

Since their selection, Rachel and Hamish have adapted remarkably well to the transition, demonstrating confidence and composure far beyond their years.

Rachel said, “It’s been a big step up. The Radical demands a totally different driving style, but I’ve really enjoyed the challenge! Off track, I’ve been learning to work with a much bigger (and brilliant!) team at Radical - from my race engineer and mechanics to the marketing crew.”

“It’s been a big jump,” echoed Hamish, “but it’s been a fun learning curve - one I’ve really enjoyed.”

Both drivers have loved racing the Radical SR3 XXR. Hamish shared his enthusiasm: “The car is super fun and nice to drive. It really allows you to push to the limit, but it also challenges you when you get things wrong, so it’s a great car to learn and improve in.”

Rachel wholeheartedly agreed: “Driving the Radical SR3 XXR has been incredible! The downforce and braking performance are on another level. The car rewards confidence and commitment, and it’s been amazing to push the limits in it.”

Robertson’s results this season clearly reflect her growth, as she has steadily climbed both the finishing order and the championship leader board. What began as a fight for points has evolved into consistent podium finishes, making her a regular contender at the front of the field. A standout performance came with her impressive third-place finish in the endurance race at Brands Hatch. “It had been quite a tough weekend up until that point, and then things just clicked,” she reflected. It was a result that came at the right time for her and was thoroughly deserved.

She also impressed in Race One at Snetterton, where a series of bold overtakes secured her another podium. Rachel currently sits third in the championship standings. As the season progresses, she will have the chance to build on her strong race craft and continue challenging at the sharp end of the grid.

Forrest has shown raw speed from the outset, consistently fighting for podiums and securing multiple second-place finishes. His campaign hasn’t been without setbacks—his debut race saw him forced into the gravel at Turn 1 through no fault of his own. However, he demonstrated impressive resilience and self-belief, bouncing back to deliver top-level performances in the races that followed. His season highlight so far came at Donington, where he claimed a brilliant second-place finish and his first podium. Since that early setback, Forrest has been relentlessly quick, achieving podium finishes at every race weekend with remarkable consistency and pace, which has rewarded him when more experienced drivers have slipped up. He has also proven to be rapid in the simulator.  He now sits second in the championship standings, just behind 2024 Radical SR1 Cup Champion Marcus Littlewood. Littlewood has set a formidable benchmark this season, pushing Forrest, Robertson, and the rest of the field to elevate every aspect of their driving to remain competitive.

Both drivers have also benefited from a range of development opportunities through the Wera Tools Alliance Racing Academy. In April, they completed advanced simulator training at TwentyOne Performance’s professional facility, helping them prepare for the challenges of upcoming circuits. The Wera Academy has also given them the chance to learn from and connect with other talented drivers, accelerating their development both on and off the track.

Rachel is determined to keep building on her performances: “Every time I go out, I’m aiming to improve, grab more podiums, and show I’ve got what it takes to move into single-seaters.”

Hamish’s goals are clear: “I’m going to continue to grow and learn every weekend. Hopefully, I can pick up some wins and fight for this championship!”

Both Rachel and Hamish are excited to be racing at Zandvoort this weekend. Let’s hope for a strong showing and more valuable championship points for the Radical Racing Rebels!