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Rochester based Team Hard racing have announced that experienced racing driver Michael Caine will join them for the remainder of the 2016 Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship. 

 

The experienced driver will be behind the wheel of the TLC/RCIB Insurance Racing Toyota Avensis previously piloted by Chris Smiley from this weekend at Snetterton. Smiley has switched to the UK Clio Cup for the remainder of the season with JAM Sport.

 

46-year-old Caine is a former British GT Champion and has previously contested three BTCC events in the 2011 and 2013 seasons, with a best result of eighth at Croft, having been with fellow Kent based team Motorbase.

Speaking about returning to the BTCC, Caine said: “This opportunity came up, and it is interesting. The team has punched above its weight this season with Michael Epps and Jake Hill, and I hope I will be able to add some experience to the operation. Lots of people behind the scenes have helped to make this possible, and I will give it my best shot.”

Speaking about the change in drivers for the remainder of the BTCC season, Team Principal Tony Gilham, said: “We want to be clear that we are still very much involved with Smiley.

“Chris is an amazing driver, but unfortunately the promised funds and support never came and so the off-track distraction hampered his progress and also development with the car.Due to him being let down he has been up against it from day one and therefore unable to showcase what he can really do.

“We’re absolutely delighted to welcome Michael Caine for the rest of the year, who can help push the car forwards. Michael has vast experience and has shown with Motorbase that he can secure results in both GT racing and the BTCC. We’re all looking forward to working together. Michael is the perfect fit for us,” concluded Gilham. “Having someone of his capabilities onboard will only help push us further.”

Images courtesy of  www.psp-images.co.uk