Tom Coronel will make his début in the TCR International Series at Spa-Francorchamps this weekend, racing a Honda Civic Type R for Boutsen Ginion Racing.
Coronel already has previous experience in TCR machinery, as he is contesting the entire 2017 TCR Benelux championship and has previously raced in the series in 2016.
How Coronel will join the TCR International grid for the first time, as the Honda importer for Benelux has asked the Dutchman to compete in this weekend’s event.
Coronel is competing together with Stéphane Lémeret in the 2017 Benelux championship, and has already claimed a podium finish in the season opener, also at Spa.
“The Benelux importer for Honda asked whether I wanted to race the same Honda Civic TCR in the TCR International Series round at Spa-Francorchamps as well,” said Coronel. “As I had nothing on the calendar for 5 and 6 May yet, it didn’t take long for me to say yes.
“Being able to race in this international touring car championship, next to my participation in the FIA WTCC, is great.
“This outing in the international series is a one-off affair, because the team has its focus on the Benelux series, but it wanted to take part in the international TCR event in its own country, so that is a unique chance for me.”
Coronel adds that he is looking forward to competing in the FIA WEC-supporting event, which is close to his home and core fan base.
“TCR is a relatively new race series that all drivers follow with a lot of attention. After my participation in the Benelux season opener, being able to race in the international round is excellent.
“[To be] once again at Spa-Francorchamps, a fantastic circuit, which is easy to reach for my fans, and against a strong opposition with many drivers that I know – it will certainly be thrilling and spectacular and I am really looking forward to it.”
Paul Tomanek, President of Honda Benelux, adds that having a Dutch driver racing is important for commercial reasons.
“For Honda, the Dutch market is very important,” said Tomanek. “We are delighted that we can count on Tom Coronel’s popularity as well as his driving skills to give the dynamics of our brand in The Netherland an extra boost.”