Ryan Bensley has confirmed a return to TCR UK in time for the second round of the season at Donington Park on the Grand Prix layout when the series joins British GT at the Derbyshire venue in April.

Bensley has been testing his Lynk & Co 03 today at Snetterton, but will not feature in the opening round this weekend on the National layout at the same circuit.

Last season the former Civic Cup racer impressed on his debut at Silverstone, starting from fifth in his first race before crossing the line at the end of the contest in the same position just 0.284s shy of TCR UK champion Carl Boardley. The weekend seemed to improve in his second race, jumping into the lead past Matthew Wilson in the early stages before being passed by Callum Newsham and Adam Shepherd before an accident ended a chance at scoring a podium.

The Motion Motorsport run car has emerged in new colours after an off-season rebuild and Bensley is eager to carry that competitive form over for this season. “I’m really happy with how I performed in the finale last year and showed that I am already competitive with the Lynk & Co, as it suits my driving style,” He stated. “However, I know that there is more to be found in the car itself, and that’s why we have been working on it over the winter.

“Once I’ve had more seat time and gotten to know the car better, I can start to work on finding those extra tenths that are vital. I’m supported by Motion Motorsport, who know how to run a race winning car. I’d like to claim a podium during the year, however I know the speed will come as we work on the car.”

Championship promoter Stewart Lines – who will also campaign a Lynk & Co this term said: “I’m very happy to see Ryan make his return to the championship this year, after he went so well in the final race weekend of last season. Hitting the ground running in a TCR car can be difficult, however, it’s clear that Ryan already has a handle on the Lynk & Co. Ryan was a front runner in the Milltek Civic Cup and it’s clear that he has transferred those skills to driving a TCR car. I’m excited to see how he progresses in the championship once he has had more time in the Lynk & Co.”

Check out the TCR UK season preview here:

Part 1

Part 2