Professional GT Racing Driver
Fifteen years at the pinnacle of GT racing. Two championship titles. A legacy built on precision, perseverance, and an unwavering pursuit of excellence.
Biography
Born in Oxfordshire, England, James Thornton discovered his passion for racing at the age of eight, watching the British Touring Car Championship with his father. That spark of inspiration ignited a journey that would take him to the summit of GT racing.
After a successful karting career that saw him win two national titles, James graduated to single-seaters before finding his true calling in GT machinery. His natural affinity for endurance racing — the strategy, the car management, the relentless pursuit of consistency — set him apart.
Today, James balances his driving career with his role as founder of Thornton Motorsport, a team dedicated to developing young drivers and competing at the highest level of GT racing. His philosophy is simple: preparation, precision, and the patience to let results come.
“The car doesn't care about your reputation. Every session, you have to earn it again. That's what keeps me coming back.”
Career
Graduated from karting to single-seaters, finishing 3rd in the Formula Renault 2.0 NEC championship in his sophomore year.
Transitioned to GT racing with a factory-affiliated team. Secured first GT3 victory at Spa-Francorchamps in 2015 and earned a factory contract.
Back-to-back championship runner-up finishes before clinching the GT Championship title in 2019 with 6 wins and 11 podiums.
Expanded to endurance racing with class victories at the 24 Hours of Spa, Bathurst 12 Hour, and a podium finish at Le Mans.
Launched Thornton Motorsport while continuing to compete. Running a two-car GT program and mentoring the next generation.
Statistics
247
Career Race Starts
38
Race Wins
94
Podium Finishes
2
Championship Titles
15
Years Professional
6
Endurance Victories
Dominant title-winning season with 6 victories and 11 podium finishes from 18 rounds.
Led the GT3 Pro-Am class to a historic victory with co-drivers at the legendary Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps.
Third overall at Mount Panorama in a field of 34 cars, racing through the night on one of the world's most demanding circuits.
Partners
Proud to work alongside brands that share a commitment to performance, heritage, and craftsmanship.
Meridian Watches
Principal Partner
Castellan Engineering
Principal Partner
Heritage Motors
Major Partner
Virtus Performance
Major Partner
Laurent & Cole
Official Partner
Apex Lubricants
Official Partner
Nordic Composites
Technical Partner
SignalPath Analytics
Technical Partner
Contact
For partnership opportunities, media enquiries, or to discuss driver coaching and mentorship programs.