Andy Neate has been unveiled as the third driver for the factory Honda Yuasa Racing team, and will contest the 2016 Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship in the third of their updated Honda Civic Type-Rs.
Neate, who last competed in the series in 2013 with his self-run team, IP Tech Race Engineering, returns to the BTCC with a diverse range of previous experience as a result of his stints driving for Team AON and as a factor driver alongside Jason Plato at MG KX Momentum Racing in 2012.
The 41-year old currently has a best result of two sixth place finishes to his name, with 16th in the 2012 Drivers Championship his strongest showing in the UK’s premier motorsport series to date.
The announcement comes after weeks of speculation as to who would claim the coveted third seat in the championship-winning outfit. Neate believes there is a lot to be learnt from his more decorated new team-mates, Matt Neal and reigning champion Gordon Shedden, but also feels his past experience will prove a valuable asset to Team Dynamics as they look to secure more championship titles this season.
“Like Matt [Neal], I’ve been involved with multiple teams in British Touring Cars and so bring with me a wealth of understanding and familiarity of the championship.” commented Neate.
“I’m really excited to be working alongside two of the greats in Matt and Flash and it will be brilliant to have team mates that I can learn so much from.”
“The car looked epic last year and I am sure this year will be no different. I can’t wait to get behind the wheel and begin to support Honda in achieving back to back manufacturers’ championships, and of course be challenging for those hard fought podiums.”
James Rodgers, the Team Manager at Team Dynamics, echoed Neate’s sentiments and believes it was important for Honda Yuasa Racing to expand their programme on this years grid, given the trend among other teams to do similarly.
“We are delighted to have signed Andy to take on the third car and help our team point scoring capabilities for this season.” he said.
“The trend for increasing numbers of cars in teams has meant we are very keen to bolster our presence on the grid this year. Andy joins the Honda works team with plenty of experience to build on and a hunger for podium places, which is just what we are after.”
Neate will be officially unveiled with his 2016 challenger at the Season Launch, which will be take place at Donington Park on Tuesday 22nd March.