Restart Racing has confirmed Chris Smiley will continue with the team for the 2025 Kwik Fit British Touring Car Championship, coinciding with its switch to two brand-new Hyundai i30 Fastback N cars next season.

After a strong debut season with Cupra Leons, this move sees the team switch to established frontrunning machinery.

Smiley, who delivered the team’s best 2024 result with a sixth-place finish at Silverstone, brings proven BTCC pedigree. Between 2018 and 2020, the Northern Irishman secured one win and six podiums, including the first for the Hyundai i30. The team is currently searching for a second driver to race alongside Smiley.

Chris Smiley shared “I’ve raced the i30s before, securing EXCELR8’s first podium at Donington Park in 2020, so I’m fully aware of what this package can deliver. 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.”

Tickets for all 2025 Kwik Fit British Touring Car Championship events at MSV venues are on sale now with discounted advance prices and free entry for under-13s. Click here to find out more.