Tom’s plans for next season have been confirmed with the exciting news that Vauxhall have signed him to be part of their British Touring Car Championship assault.
The latest development of the VXR Astra Sport Hatch will be run by Triple Eight again, continuing their successful association with Vauxhall into a tenth consecutive year.
This is an amazing opportunity for 20 year-old Tom, who impressed the Vauxhall hierarchy this season with his speed and maturity on his way to four victories in the BTCC.
“ It’s fantastic to be chosen to join VX Racing. My first drive in Touring Cars was in a Vauxhall so I’m looking forward to driving the Astra Sport Hatch. Ian Harrison ( team principal ) is a great bloke who runs a good team of guys at Triple Eight.”
Tom will be partnered in the factory-backed team by World Touring Car star Fabrizio Giovanardi. The Italian is the most successful active touring car driver in the world, having won six major titles from 1997 – 2002.
“ I’m really pleased to have Fabrizio as a team mate as I think he’s a great driver, one of the best. I’m looking forward to working with him and getting a good comparison of how I’m developing as a driver. “
The news that Tom has signed for Vauxhall means he will contest every round of the BTCC in 2006. He will also be aiming to get more sportscar outings where commitments allow.
“ Obviously my priority will be the BTCC. Vauxhall are paying me to do a job and that job is to help bring back the Manufacturers’ title. Hopefully I will also get more races in the Le Mans series either in Europe or America where I can. The dates appear to rule out Le Mans itself as it clashes with a round of the BTCC which is a shame, I will look at other opportunities and get some more experience, but only if it fits in with my Vauxhall program.”
Tom’s move brings to an end his successful three-year association with Arena International and the Honda Civic.
“ My time with Arena has been brilliant for me. I have learnt so much and improved every year and that’s largely down to their faith and support. Especially Mike Earl, he has guided me through those early years and I will always be grateful for that. Now I have to move on. It’s a new chapter for me and I’m feeling very positive about the future. “
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