David Richards CBE, Motorsport UK Chairman, announced the news as he thanked marshals and officials in Liverpool at the start of Wales Rally GB, the UK’s round of the World Rally Championship.

Currently Motorsport UK-licensed Clerks of the Course, Scrutineers and Timekeepers pay a £35 fee for their officials grade. The decision to remove the cost is a thank you gesture from the governing body and further example of Motorsport UK committing to putting its members at the heart.

Speaking at Wales Rally GB, David Richards CBE, said: “This world-class event wouldn’t be happening if it wasn’t for the almost 2000 volunteers, marshals and officials ensuring its safe and successful running. As a thank you to all UK motorsport officials, who willingly give up their free time to safeguard our sport, I want to do what we should have always done and ensure that none of them have to pay for a licence going forward. Motorsport UK Officials licences will be free of charge for 2020.”

Motorsport UK CEO, Hugh Chambers, added: “Volunteers are the lifeblood of our sport and we’re pleased to remove the officials licence fee as a thank you for their ongoing hardwork that keeps the UK’s 4800 motorsport events running every year. The removal of the officials fee will hopefully encourage new blood into the volunteer community as we remove barriers to entry and help safeguard the future of our sport.”

Officials who have already renewed for 2020 will be refunded their licence fees. Any membership or licence queries should be sent to membership@motorsportuk.org.