Dave Newsham will no longer drive a BMW 302si for Geoff Steel Racing in this season’s BTCC and instead will switch to racing a Special Tuning Racing-prepared SEAT Leon.
With the announcement coming shortly before this weekend’s races at Thruxton, STR do not have the time to prepare a second car for Newsham. He will therefore take part in his first race for the team at Oulton Park on June 5th.
Newsham made his debut in the BTCC earlier this year at Brands Hatch, where he took his first points in his debut race. However Newsham struggled last time out at Donington Park and failed to score any points, although he did receive 3 penalty points on his racing licence and a £500 fine for an incident in the third race.
“I am very excited about the change to STR,” said Newsham. “I have met the team at their HQ in Forton, and was very impressed with their set-up and car preparation. The Seat Leon looks quick in Tom’s hands and it has a strong turbo charged engine. All the ingredients are there for us to have a great remainder of the season.”
STR Team Principal John Boardman said that one of the reasons for not rushing Newsham into a car this weekend is to allow him to get used to the front-wheel drive handling of the SEAT first. “Dave contacted us earlier in the week and we’ve negotiated for him to drive with STR for the remainder of the season,” said Boardman. “He’ll be making the switch from a RWD BMW to the FWD SEAT and wants to test the car before competing, so won’t be racing at Thruxton, but we’re confident that his experience driving the FWD Clio will stand him good stead.
“Plans are also taking shape for us to have a third driver out later in the season. Sponsorship deals are being finalised and we hope to be able to make another announcement soon.”