Dutch team Bas Koeten Racing will enter the Valencia round of the TCR International Series with a SEAT León for Bas Schouten, with the team using the event as a test ahead of entering the 2016 TCR Benelux Series and the SEAT León Eurocup.
The outfit, which was created at the end of 2014, will enter a single SEAT car in next weekend’s event in Spain, with a view to having three cars for 2016.
Team Principal Bas Kouten is convinced by the new TCR concept, and said: “We have been following the launch of the TCR concept since its beginning, and we are convinced of the crucial role this category can play in motor racing. Accessible, affordable and recognizable: this is what is needed to create permanent value in motorsport, at national and international level.
“The initiative brought forward by Marcello Lotti comes at the right time and has the potential to mobilize all key stakeholders (associations, manufacturers , teams, drivers and media) towards a successful launch of the new concept.”
Driver Bas Schouten is switching to touring car racing at just 20 years of age and is convinced of the next step in hisvcareer.
“Touring car racing is the right direction to take for me at this stage of my career and I want to be perfectly prepared for the TCR Benelux Series next year,” said Schouten, who is being mentored by Tom Coronel. “Taking part in the first European races of the TCR International Series already this season will help me to do so.”
WTCC ace Coronel is pleased to be able to get involved with a new Dutch touring car team. “It’s great to see that there is already a Dutch team that moves towards the international TCR field,” said Coronel. “I’m happy to be able to contribute to this initiative. With the right support, driver and partners, this project is bound to a bright future.”