'Thrilled' Smiley returns to BTCC with Restart Racing
Chris Smiley has one win and six podiums in the BTCC
- Published
Northern Ireland's Chris Smiley will return to the British Touring Car Championship in 2025, driving a Hyundai i30 N for Restart Racing.
After two years away from the BTCC, a period in which he won the TCR UK title, Smiley returned to the series in 2024 and secured two Independent victories while driving a Cupra Leon.
Restart Racing will switch to a Hyundai i30 Fastback N for the 2025 season, a car Smiley, 32, has previously driven for Excelr8 Racing in 2020 and 2021.
"I'm fully aware of what this i30 package can deliver," said Smiley, who has one overall race victory and six podiums in the BTCC.
"It's a proven race-winning car, and with the right team and preparation, we're aiming to climb as far up the grid as we can.
"I'm thrilled to be back with Restart Racing and can't wait to get started."
The 2025 BTCC season consists of 30 races across 10 rounds and begins at Donington Park on 26-27 April.