Dan Welch is set to make a return to British Touring Car Championship machinery at the upcoming mid-season Snetterton test later this week [11/12 July].
Welch, who last competed in the BTCC in 2016, is one of four new drivers who will test Team HARD’s VW Passat CC during the two-day test at the Norfolk circuit.
“Tony and I have been in communication throughout the last few seasons and have helped each other out on numerous occasions,” said Welch. “The time felt right to jump in the seat to see what the new RML cars feel like and to hopefully provide some valuable feedback to the team.
“We have always remained interested in the BTCC and will never rule out a return so jumped at the chance to get back involved for the day. What the future holds is unknown but let’s see how the test goes and build from there.”
The Kent-based squad have endured a tough start to their 2018 campaign, with Jake Hill’s podium in race two at the season-opening Brands Hatch meeting their best result this year.
Team HARD boss Tony Gilham said: “Dan is a very experienced racing driver so we are looking forward to seeing what he can add to what we are already learning about what is essentially a new car following the winter developments.
“He has proven over the years that he has the pace to compete at the front and so will be very interesting to hear his thoughts and feedback this Thursday at the test. He has good knowledge of engineering and has ran his own team for years so the knowledge should be very good for the team as a whole.”