Restart Racing is thrilled to announce its next step in the Kwik Fit British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) as the team prepares to field two brand new Hyundai i30 Fastback N cars for the 2025 season. Following an impressive debut year running two Cupra Leon’s, Restart Racing is determined to climb further up the grid and compete at the sharp end of the field with this proven race-winning platform.
In their debut season, Restart Racing made an immediate impact with consistent progress and flashes of competitive pace. The move to the Hyundai i30s now signals a significant step forward for the team, as they aim to challenge for podiums and establish themselves as a leading contender in the BTCC. The i30s, which have a rich pedigree of success in the championship, provide the perfect platform for the team’s ambitions in 2025.
Restart Racing is also proud to announce a new partnership with Swindon Powertrain, a renowned name in motorsport engineering. With over a decade of experience developing and supplying engines for the BTCC, Swindon Powertrain has powered multiple championship-winning teams and drivers, including the Driver’s Championship titles in 2020, 2021, and 2022. This collaboration ensures that the Hyundai i30s will be equipped with engines built to the highest standards, offering the team the tools they need to compete at the front of the field.
The team is currently seeking a second driver to fill the seat alongside Chris Smiley, who has been confirmed to return for the 2025 season. Managing Director Peter Jones commented: “Since announcing our plans for 2025, my phone hasn’t stopped ringing with interest from potential drivers. Our focus is to find someone who can match the incredible package we’ve put together with the Hyundai i30s and our partnership with Swindon Powertrain. We’re here to compete and push for podiums, and we believe the right driver can take us even further up the grid.”
Team Principal Ben Taylor added: “Having worked with the i30s during my time at EXCELR8, I know firsthand just how fast and competitive these cars are. They were among the quickest on the grid last year, and with the talented team we have here at Restart Racing, we’re eager to hit the ground running in 2025.”
Chris Smiley shared his excitement about the new season and the return to Hyundai machinery: “I’ve raced the i30s before, securing EXCELR8’s first podium at Donington Park in 2020, so I’m fully aware of what this package can deliver. It’s a proven race-winning car, and with the right team and preparation, we’re aiming to climb as far up the grid as we can. I’m thrilled to be back with Restart Racing and can’t wait to get started.”
With the Hyundai i30s’ arrival and the collaboration with Swindon Powertrain, Restart Racing enters a new chapter of its BTCC journey. The team’s commitment to developing their race pace, combined with their innovative approach to fan engagement and sponsor partnerships, positions them as a team to watch in 2025. The search for a second driver only adds to the anticipation as the team looks to solidify its lineup for the upcoming season.
For partnership inquiries and opportunities to work with Restart Racing in the 2025 BTCC season, please contact pete@restartracing.co.uk