After a year away from the British Touring Car Championship (BTCC), Dan Lloyd makes a highly anticipated return in 2025 with Restart Racing behind the wheel of a Hyundai i30 N Fastback. The 32-year-old from Yorkshire previously celebrated victories in the prestigious series, but his absence last season was notable, following Team Hard’s collapse. This led him to the Porsche Carrera Cup GB as a temporary diversion, yet his determination to reestablish himself in the BTCC remains unwavering.
Lloyd’s return to the grid marks not just a change in team but also a reunion with familiar faces from his past. Reconnecting with team principal Ben Taylor, teammate Chris Smiley, and race engineer Tom Hunt, Lloyd has forged a strong bond with seasoned professionals who understand his racing ethos. This familiarity is crucial as he adapts back to the competitive landscape of BTCC, ready to harness the performance of the new Hyundai platform.
The strategic decision by Restart Racing to transition to the newer Hyundai machines is expected to enhance their competitiveness. The team has exhibited a thoughtful approach, recognizing that a robust driver lineup is essential to maximizing the potential of their new vehicles. With Lloyd’s proven track record in the BTCC and his previous experiences behind the wheel of the Hyundai, the team is keen to develop a culture of success.
Team principal Pete Jones has expressed confidence in Lloyd’s capabilities. “He’s a proven winner,” Jones remarked, emphasizing Lloyd’s determination and competitive spirit that were key factors in signing him. The partnership with Chris Smiley also bolsters the team’s ambitions, providing an experienced duo primed for podium finishes and robust results throughout the upcoming season.
This collective drive demonstrates Restart Racing’s long-term vision, where Lloyd plays a pivotal role. By not merely focusing on short-term goals, they’re laying the groundwork for sustained success within BTCC, showing a commitment to development and growth that could redefine their competitive edge.
As the pre-season preparations unfold, competition in the BTCC remains fierce. While Lloyd prepares to turn laps in the new Hyundai during tests scheduled in early April, there is intense anticipation about how the team will adapt to the peculiarities of their new machinery. The lack of clarity surrounding the team’s engineering and management staff adjustments adds another layer of complexity. Restart Racing is reportedly looking to enrich its capabilities by adding established BTCC figures to their ranks, a move that could prove critical as they gear up for the season.
In contrast, Jamie Warren, the team manager from 2024, has made a notable shift to Un-Limited Motorsport, which continues with the previous Cupra chassis. His experience, particularly from his tenure at Team Hard, might offer insights beneficial for restarting his new challenge at Un-Limited Motorsport. With Un-Limited expanding to two entries, it will be interesting to see how the team develops and how competitors like Lloyd and Restart respond.
Bob Sharpless, team owner of Un-Limited, articulated his commitment to maximizing performance, setting a clear vision for the 2025 season. As the teams brace for action, the competition will undoubtedly tighten, and everyone will be keen on witnessing how the narrative unfolds, especially for Lloyd and Restart Racing.
Lloyd’s infectious enthusiasm for the coming season is palpable, where he anticipates what he and his team can achieve together. This revival promises excitement, not only for Lloyd as a competitor but also for fans of the BTCC who will appreciate witnessing a seasoned driver back in action with a fresh team. The combination of veteran expertise, fresh machinery, and a collaborative team environment illustrates a picture of optimism in a championship known for its unpredictability.
In this new chapter, Lloyd embodies resilience and determination, riding high on the exhilaration of competition while his team focuses on harnessing every opportunity that comes their way. With the season approaching, anticipation is building around the potential showdowns and victories awaiting in BTCC’s vibrant motorsport tapestry. As the engines roar back to life, so will the ambitions and achievements of Lloyd and the Restart Racing team.