Two squads and four drivers for the i30 N TCR
With the start of the 2019 WTCR – FIA World Touring Car Cup season just around the corner, our customer teams have revealed their line-ups at a launch event in Italy.
Taking place at the BRC Racing Team factory, two i30 N TCR teams were officially announced alongside their 2019 driver line-up. BRC Hyundai N Squadra Corse will field 2018 champion Gabriele Tarquini alongside Norbert Michelisz. WTCR debutants Augusto Farfus and Nicky Catsburg will compete for the BRC Hyundai N Lukoil Racing Team.
“The i30 N TCR was incredibly successful in the series last year, which has set the benchmark for the season ahead,” said our Team Director Andrea. “Both teams, and all four drivers, are worthy championship contenders, and we wish them all the best for the challenge ahead.”
Four in the fight
The quartet of drivers will compete in all ten rounds of the 2019 season, which will take place across three continents. After a strong debut season for the i30 N TCR in the WTCR, our customers will be aiming to fight for both titles.
Team Principal of BRC Racing, Gabriele Rizzo said: “The i30 N TCR represents one of the strongest chassis available for the TCR regulations. The car is reliable and strong in all the main technical areas – braking, cornering, speed, aero and engine. We are convinced we have the ideal package to approach the season.”
Inaugural WTCR champion, Gabriele, added: “It will be a very competitive season as we look to defend the title. We saw last year how close the battle for the title was – coming down to the final laps of the year – and it will be the same in 2019.”
Perfect match
“This year, I am aiming to win the title,” said Norbert. “With what Gabriele achieved last year I know I am in the right car and the right team to be able to do it.”
Augusto commented: “As a driver, you always want to be in the top series in the most competitive car, so when the chance came up to drive the i30 N TCR with a customer team in 2019 it was an easy choice. ”
“I’m really looking forward to going racing,” said Nicky. “I saw some races last year, and it was always very close and very competitive. I think that the WTCR will suit my driving style quite well, and I’m excited for the season.”
The i30 N TCR cars will make their track debut in the pre-season test in Barcelona March 28-29, ahead of the opening round of the season, Race of Morocco, from April 5-7.
