Northern Ireland's Chris Smiley is all set to make a significant comeback to the British Touring Car Championship in 2025. After a two-year hiatus during which he achieved great success in the TCR UK title, he is now gearing up to drive a Hyundai i30 N for Restart Racing. This move comes as Restart Racing switches to a Hyundai i30 Fastback N for the 2025 season, a car that Smiley has previously driven for Excelr8 Racing in 2020 and 2021.

Thrilled to Be Back with Restart Racing

Smiley, who has one overall race victory and six podiums in the BTCC, is fully aware of the potential of the i30 package. He believes that it is a proven race-winning car and with the right team and preparation, they can aim to climb as high up the grid as possible. "I'm thrilled to be back with Restart Racing and can't wait to get started," he said.

The 2025 BTCC Season

The 2025 BTCC season is set to be an exciting one with 30 races across 10 rounds. It will begin at Donington Park on 26-27 April. This provides a great opportunity for Smiley and the Restart Racing team to showcase their skills and make a mark in the championship.

Smiley's Past Success in the BTCC

With his previous experience in the BTCC, Smiley knows what it takes to succeed in this highly competitive series. His one overall race victory and six podiums speak volumes about his driving ability and determination. He is now looking to build on this success and achieve even greater heights with Restart Racing.

The Switch to Hyundai i30 Fastback N

The switch to the Hyundai i30 Fastback N is a significant one for Restart Racing. This car has a proven track record and is expected to give the team a competitive edge. Smiley is confident that he can adapt quickly to the new car and make it work to their advantage. "It's a great opportunity for us to showcase our skills and compete at the highest level," he said.