West Coast Racing became the first team to publicly showcase their TCR-spec machinery in a two-day test of the new Honda Civic TCR at the Catalunya Circuit in Barcelona.
The Swedish squad, which will run three JAS Motorsport-built Civics in the inaugural TCR International Series, had experienced tin-top racer Gianni Morbidelli at the wheel.
Although the Italian is yet to be confirmed in a race seat, his prospects of a WTCC return appear slim after former team Munnich Motorsport opted for Stefano d’Aste to race their Chevrolet Cruze.
“We are delighted that Gianni accepted our invitation to test the car, as we believe that he will be able to offer an invaluable contribution in setting up the car thanks to his vast experience in Touring Car racing,” said West Coast Racing team manager James Rogers.
“We are also very grateful to JAS for the effort they have put into building three cars in such a short time, so that they will be ready to be sent to Malaysia for the inaugural event.”
The first shipment of TCR machinery bound for the first round of the TCR International Series in Malaysia on March 28-29 is due to leave port in Genoa today.
The first ten racing cars, along with 15 tonnes of spare parts, are being loaded onto the cargo ship APL New York. The vessel sets sail on February 15th and is expected to arrive on March 18th.
The second cargo, consisting of ten more cars and spare parts, will be flown to Malaysia in mid-March. All shipments are organised by SEL Sports & Events Logistics, who are the official partner for the TCR International Series.