TEENAGER Matt Chapman is weighing up his options for next season after enduring a frustrating 2017, writes JAMES ROBERTS.

Mechanical issues blighted the Oxford driver’s first year in the British GT4 Championship, forcing the 17-year-old to withdraw from the final race at Donington Park.

Chapman explained: “It was a decision that I, my father and my mentor Jonny Adam came to, so that we can focus on the 2018 season and maybe look to go with a different manufacturer.

“We’re keeping our options open, meeting people and seeing how we can carry it forward.”

Ending his season early might have raised eyebrows, but Chapman and his team have already set the wheels in motion as they plan for the future.

He said: “We’ve got some meetings lined up which is very exciting.

“These don’t usually happen this early, but nothing’s finalised yet.

“Ending the season early allows us more time to speak to people, especially local companies who we’re trying to talk to at the moment.

“Deals take a long time to push through so it’s always best to try and start as early as possible for next year.”

The teenager was vice-champion in last year’s Ginetta GT5 Challenge, including winning at the world-famous Spa-Francorchamps circuit in Belgium.

With victory in the historic Le Mans 24-hour endurance race the ultimate goal, Chapman is aiming high as he bids to return to winning ways.

He said: “From the onset we’re looking at podiums and wins – we’re going out there to win the championship.

“We were running at P3 in Rockingham until we had a car malfunction, which was very damaging to our race and a down moment for the team and myself.”

“In 2016 we didn’t have much testing at all but finished vice-champion with wins at Oulton Park and Spa.

“We’re looking to emulate that in 2018 and, if we do, it’ll be a fantastic year.”