Maxxis Trepadors Conquer King of Britain 2026

Gigglepin Racing Crowned Ultra4 Europe King of Britain Champions

After a five-year absence, Ultra4 Europe’s legendary King of Britain returned in spectacular fashion for 2026, bringing together some of the best off-road racing talent from across Europe for three days of intense competition. At the end of a gruelling weekend, it was Maxxis-supported Gigglepin Racing who once again stood on top of the podium, securing their fourth King of Britain title and proving exactly what it takes to win at the highest level.

Driven by Jim Marsden and co-driven by James Ayre, the team arrived at Parkwood Off-Road Centre in West Yorkshire determined to turn their season around. Despite showing impressive pace throughout the opening rounds of the 2026 Ultra4 European Championship, mechanical problems had prevented them from delivering the results they deserved. Months of preparation, development work and testing had been invested in the car ahead of the event, and the team were ready for the challenge.

Perfect Preparation Pays Off

The event began with a fast and technical prologue stage, where Marsden and Ayre immediately demonstrated their intent. Delivering a stunning run, they finished eight seconds clear of the competition and secured the fastest time heading into the main race.

King of Britain is renowned for testing every aspect of a race team. Huge rock sections, rivers, technical woodland trails, steep climbs and deep gullies create a brutal environment where reliability is just as important as outright speed.

Dominating From the Front

Day two saw the Gigglepin Racing team take control of the event. Starting at the front, they maintained a smooth and consistent pace throughout the opening sessions, keeping rival teams behind both on track and on adjusted time. By the end of the day they had built a commanding one-lap advantage over the chasing pack.

As ever in Ultra4 competition, success depends on teamwork. While Jim and James delivered behind the wheel, the pit crew worked tirelessly to ensure the car remained race-ready for the challenges ahead.

The Final Challenge

Day three presented the toughest test of the weekend, with a demanding race schedule designed to push both vehicle and crew to their limits. Managing tyre wear, maintaining consistency and avoiding mistakes became the priority as the pressure intensified.

Despite the increasing pace from competitors, Gigglepin Racing continued to control the event. Marsden drove with precision throughout, while Ayre monitored live race data and strategy from the co-driver’s seat. Their disciplined approach allowed the team to extend their advantage and move closer to victory.

Trepadors Deliver When It Matters Most

One of the standout achievements of the weekend was tyre performance. On a course notorious for punctures and tyre damage, Jim Marsden completed the entire event without suffering a single flat tyre. In terrain littered with sharp rocks, river crossings and punishing obstacles, that’s a remarkable achievement and a testament to both driver skill and the toughness of the Maxxis Trepador.

As the final two-hour session unfolded, the team encountered heavy traffic from multiple racing classes sharing the same course. Even then, they continued to build their lead, eventually stretching their advantage to four laps over the competition.

In true Ultra4 fashion, the drama wasn’t over. A front driveshaft failure struck late in the race, threatening to derail an otherwise near-perfect performance. Refusing to give up, the team quickly removed the damaged component and carried on, crossing the finish line to claim victory and the coveted King of Britain crown.

A Team Effort

Reflecting on the win, driver Jim Marsden commented:

“It was an epic three days of racing as Ultra4 Europe saw the return of King of Britain after a four-year break. I was lucky enough to head up a superb team and head to the North of England to see if we could claim a fourth King of Britain title.”

From the drivers and mechanics to the support crew behind the scenes, this was a victory built on teamwork, preparation and determination.

Congratulations from Maxxis Tyres UK

Everyone at Maxxis Tyres UK would like to congratulate Jim Marsden, James Ayre, Michael Whitting, Sam Marsden and the entire Gigglepin Racing team on an outstanding performance.

Winning one King of Britain title is an achievement. Winning four is legendary.

We’re proud that Maxxis Trepador tyres played their part in helping the team conquer one of Europe’s toughest off-road events and return home as the Ultra4 Europe King of Britain 2026 champions.

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