Howard Fuller has been confirmed by Team HARD to drive one of their NGTC VW Passat CC’s, sharing the car with American racer Robb Holland.
The former VW Cup racer, who made his British Touring Car Championship debut at the wheel of the S2000 Honda Civic at Rockingham as a reward for winning in the VW Cup, and his performances at Rockingham led to him driving the car at Silverstone as well.
Fuller could end up driving for a full season if he can secure the budget and the team will then build another VW Passat for Holland plus another driver who is interested in joining the grid.
Speaking to BTCC.net about the announcement, the 20 year old said: “It has all come together nicely, and it’s great to know that I’ll be on the grid,” he said. “It can be frustrating reading about everyone else’s plans while I’ve been busy trying to secure my own place. I’m just thankful to Tony for the opportunity and I can’t wait to work with him and the team again.”
Looking ahead to the 2013 campaign, Fuller admits that he expects to be the youngest driver on the grid but is looking forward to the challenge.
“To be bringing the VW Passat to the BTCC grid – along with Tom Onslow-Cole of course – is a great feeling. I am likely to be the youngest guy on the grid and the likes of Tom obviously have more experience than me, but I am confident in my own ability and I am looking forward to the challenge,” he added.
Team HARD Team boss Tony Gilham has high hopes for Fuller in the 2013 campaign after impressing for the team in the VW Cup plus his selected BTCC outings.
“Howard is a very good driver,” added Gilham. . “He won for us in the VW Cup and the whole team loves him. We rewarded him with a BTCC drive at Rockingham last year and he did so well that we put him back in the car for Silverstone. I am sure he will do a great job for us.”