The 49th running of the Formula Ford Festival is set to attract a big entry at Brands Hatch this weekend - even amid the Covid-19 restrictions.

The historic knockout event, which has previously helped launch the careers of Jenson Button and Johnny Herbert, has been granted elite sporting status which means its international competitors will not have to comply with usual quarantine rules for entering the UK.

Overseas drivers will be able to apply for exemption from the standard two-week self-isolation period, but must present a negative Covid-19 result before attending the event.

Scotsman Neil Maclennan will arguably start the meeting as favourite having wrapped up the BRSCC Avon Tyres National FF1600 title at Silverstone earlier this month.

The Spectrum racer will face tough competition from a host of rivals, though, including last year's Festival winner Jonathan Browne, who won every round of the Champion of Brands series this year in his Ray.

Double Festival winner Joey Foster - who last won the event in 2017 - is also expected to be at the sharp end in his red Firman.

Two Americans - Bryce Aron and Jackson Lee - will run under the Team USA Scholarship banner, with Chicago's Aron, 16, keen to build on his Champion of Brands experience.

Support races will come from the Mazda MX-5 SuperCup Championship, Classic and Modern Motorsport Club and HSCC Formula Ford Championships.

Tickets - costing £12 per day of £20 for the weekend - must be booked in advance before 4pm on Friday. Visit www.brandshatch.co.uk for details.

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