With mere hours of 2008 remaining, it’s about time I took a quick look back at the championships I’ve concentrated on here this year, and how they’re looking for 2009. Let’s do it.

Formula 1

2008
It ended with, for my money, the most exciting and dramatic race I can remember. But that can’t erase the memory of the many dull processions that passed for races during the season. As has become par for the course, there was more of interest off-track than on.

2009
If Honda Racing doesn’t find a buyer, then it will be a sorry nine teams in the paddock. Amongst the many other unknowns: the impact of slick tyres and reduced aerodynamics, and whether the qualifying format or points system will be overhauled. I am looking to the BBC’s coverage though. Bring on ‘The Chain’.

MotoGP

2008
Too often races finished with one rider way out in front – even if it wasn’t always eventual champion Valentino Rossi. Probably no more so than Formula 1, and there were still some top races, but I expect more from MotoGP.

2009
Kawasaki is expected to withdraw from the championship, which will make the grid very sparse indeed – though I’m not convinced the size of the field matters much for MotoGP. With a single tyre supplier the only major regulation change, what we need is for someone to step up and challenge Rossi. Dani Pedrosa, Casey Stoner and Jorge Lorenzo are the most obvious candidates, but also a doubtless fired-up Nicky Hayden on the Ducati, and Andrea Dovizioso now on a factory Honda.

British Superbikes

2008
Championship of the year and no mistake. Despite Shane Byrne’s domination, it was an outstandingly entertaining season from the almost entirely homegrown field – many of whom are off to the Superbike or Supersport World Championship for 2009.

2009
There’s going to be a more international flavour, with the likes of Australian Josh Brookes and Frenchman Sylvain Guintoli replacing Brits at top teams. It’ll be odd to have no Ducati squad, but nonetheless it’s looking like the grid should be a healthy size. And with three races at some meetings, there’s set to be as even more to enjoy.

British Touring Car Championship

2008
Jason Plato was no match for Fabrizio Giovanardi in the end, but the much-hyped competition between them made for good watching – and with plenty of other race winners, it certainly wasn’t a predictable season. Once more the balance between clean racing and rough ‘n’ tumble was nicely struck.

2009
Christ knows. SEAT is out, Mat Jackson’s team is without a sponsor at the moment, few drivers are confirmed – in short it’s looking a bit bleak. But with Arena back with the Ford Focus, and several teams thinking about running a third car, the BTCC could yet come out of the winter fighting fit.