DTR has been revealed as a new entrant to TCR UK, with the multi-car outfit bringing the Honda Civic FL5 to UK shores for the first time since 2023.
Run by Darryl Taplin, the team will run with support from Honda Racing Corporation’s JAS Motorsport who designed, developed and build the machines.
Taplin has prior experience with the car having been part of the crew that ran Chris Smiley with Restart Racing in an FL5 in 2023. Taplin was also part of the Excelr8 setup in BTCC before moving to Restart where the team took Smiley to the 2022 TCR UK title.
“I’m excited to announce that we have teamed up with JAS Motorsport and will be on the TCR UK grid with at least two Honda Civic Type R FL5 TCRs next year,” Taplin stated when the announcement was made. “The first car will arrive in the UK in the next couple of weeks, ahead of a full testing schedule planned to begin in January,” he added.
The news comes two days after it was announced that Lewis Kent would return to TCR UK in a Lynk & Co for next season as the series builds on a successful season as part of the BARC organisation.
“We were clear in the beginning that this should be a long-term project, where we support young drivers who are looking to make their mark in the competitive world of touring car racing,“ Taplin continued. “We have unfinished business in TCR UK, and knowing what the car is capable of, I look forward to seeing Honda as a front-running brand once more. ”
The FL5 struggled in its sole TCR UK season with the then new car still being in a development phase. Smiley admitted to Touring Car Magazine earlier this year that during his title defence season – which ended with one podium appearance – that his head was turned towards a BTCC return during the season, which had an effect on how his that year played out.
The predecessors to the FL5 have taken wins and a championship in TCR UK. The FK2 and the replacement FK7 both saw success in the opening TCR UK season in 2018 with Andreas Bäckman, Ollie Taylor and four-time BTCC champion Ash Sutton at the wheel. Internationally the FL5 has taken wins, but as yet major championships have eluded the machine. JAS and Honda will be keen to help DTR taste success with a championship in the UK that is looking to return to regular grids of over 20 cars with a calendar that has been curated to hugely increase exposure for the series.
Championship manager Jack Finlan said: “I’m always delighted to welcome new teams to the championship, so it’s wonderful to see DTR join TCR UK for 2026 with a brand new touring car programme. With support from JAS, the team will provide young drivers with the best chance to develop in touring cars and go for success.”
“Having Honda back on the grid also enhances the diversity of brands taking part in next year, having seen seven different brands competing at this year’s season finale. With manufacturers returning to TCR UK, this marks an important milestone on the path to an exciting 2026 season.”
Touring Car Magazine 