BRC Racing Team has announced that they will run Hyundai i30 N TCR cars for experienced touring car stars Norbert Michelisz and Gabriele Tarquini in the 2018 FIA World Touring Car Cup (WTCR).
The team will be supported by Hyundai Motorsport Customer Racing, with Italian Tarquini carrying over his extensive knowledge gained during the test and development phase of the car in 2017.
“After leading the testing for the i30 N TCR last year I know the car very well,” said Tarquini. “This season will be a fantastic opportunity to put the experience both I, and the team, have to compete at the very front of the new championship.
“I’m looking to a full season of racing once again, competing in what I am sure will be a very tough and competitive championship.”
Michelisz’s switch to Hyundai marks the end of a five-year association with Honda, which ended with the 33-year-old Hungarian claiming the runner-up spot in last year’s World Touring Car Championship.
“I have the same feeling as I did at the start of my career,” said Michelisz. “I’m working with a new team, a new car and in a new championship.
“It’s a new challenge, which is great motivation for me. I’m looking forward to working with Gabriele again, and learning from his experience testing before the first races.
“Last year it was clear the i30 N TCR and BRC Racing Team were the package to beat, so I’m certain we can challenge for wins and the title this season.”
CEO of the BRC team, Massimiliano Fissore, said that no stone will be left unturned in the pursuit of overall title glory.
“After a year of intense work, in which we followed the testing and development phases, we can now express our pride in being the first team to represent Hyundai in the FIA World Touring Car Cup,” said the boss of the Cherasco-based team.
“The goals already achieved in 2017 make us believe in a high-level season, in which we will not spare our efforts to get the best results.
“We are ready to highlight Hyundai and BRC Gas Equipment brands in the four continents and in the races that will host the competition.”
François Ribeiro, Head of Eurosport Events, is pleased to see two established stars joining a new brand in the FIA touring car ranks.
“This is great news for the FIA World Touring Car Cup and we’re very pleased to welcome BRC Racing Team, Hyundai Motorsport Customer Racing, Norbert Michelisz and Gabriele Tarquini.
“Norbi and Gabriele need no introduction in touring car racing, while BRC established itself as a top quality team through its work with Hyundai, a manufacturer with a strong motorsport commitment.
“With such an exceptional driver line-up, BRC Racing Team has emerged as a leading contender for the FIA World Touring Car Cup for Teams and we can expect other teams to compete at the same level.”