Familiar faces return for the 2023 season
Our 2023 plans continue to accelerate as we announce the team and driver line-up for the inaugural TCR World Tour, which begins later this month (April 28-30).
Following a very strong 2022 season, Customer Racing drivers Mikel and Norbert reunite with BRC Hyundai N Squadra Corse and the Elantra N TCR for the first season of the new series.
“BRC Hyundai N Squadra Corse, Mikel and Norbert have already proven themselves to be a winning combination,” said Cyril, our Team Principal. “We’re very happy to have both drivers and the team representing our Customer Racing department for the first season of the TCR World Tour.”
Familiar faces
After joining our stable of Customer Racing drivers and clinching the WTCR drivers’ title last year, Mikel returns for his second season.
“We have a great opportunity with the beginning of TCR World Tour,” commented Mikel. “I think we are only stronger after last year and with the preparation done, I think we have a great chance to add to the success we had last season.”
His teammate Norbert will begin his sixth season with the Cherasco-based BRC Racing Team, with which he won the 2019 WTCR crown.
“As the first year of TCR World Tour this year is really exciting. We know that Mikel and I are very strong, and we know that the Elantra N TCR is a great car,” added Norbert. “There are lots of questions which we will only find out the answer to when we start racing in Portugal.”
Winner of the 2018 WTCR drivers’ title, Gabriele Tarquini, will also be continuing his role as Team Manager for the 2023 season.
Building on success
The combination of Mikel and Norbert proved incredibly successful in the final WTCR season, amassing five victories and a double title win. Their aim will be to begin the new era of international TCR racing with the same immediate success.
“TCR World Tour is a fantastic opportunity for us to showcase the N Brand and Hyundai Motorsport on a global stage at the top level of TCR competition,” explained our President, Sean Kim. “I am sure we will have more victories to celebrate this year.”
The season will live up to its World Tour name, with nine race weekends taking place across eight nations, with customer BRC Racing Team joining our national and regional TCR Series customers on the grid.
New challenges
The season ahead will present several unknowns to the teams and drivers competing for the 2023 title. A combination of new circuits, new formats and a new tyre supplier will be among the challenges. The team have completed several days of pre-season testing in preparation ahead of the first round in Portugal.
“TCR World Tour has many steps into the unknown,” added our Customer Racing Manger Andrea. “However, we are confident that we are well prepared to embark on this exciting new adventure.”
The TCR World Tour season will begin in Portimão on April 28-30.
