Smiley and Restart Racing return for TCR UK title defence

2022 TCR UK Touring Car Champion Chris Smiley will be back to defend his crown in the 2023 season, staying with Restart Racing as part of an expanded two-car line-up.

The team had already announced Scott Sumpton in the second Honda Civic Type R FK7 car earlier this week.

In 2022, Smiley took to two wins and four pole positions on his way to clinch the title, as well as taking a top eight finish in the FIA Motorsport Games at Paul Ricard back in October.

“I’m excited to be staying on with Restart Racing for a second consecutive season, where our goal is to carry on from where we left off in 2022 and defend the title. We’re going to do the best job that we can in every event with the aim of repeating that title success,” Smiley said. “It’s great to see the championship move back into being a headline act for next year and racing at the best circuits in the UK, where we can really take the show to the fans. 2023 is already looking like a more competitive year than 2022 was and I’m keeping an eye on the new Honda Civic Type R FL5 TCR that will be released next year, it’s a great-looking car.”

Picture: TCR UK