Carl Boardley will return to TCR UK this season with DTR Racing with a view to reclaiming the title, and to become the first driver to top the standings at the end of the season for a third time.

The nine-time race winner and ex-BTCC competitor is aiming to retain his 100% championship record, but this time behind the wheel of a new Honda Civic FL5.

Boardley raced in 2023 and 24 with Nick Hart overseeing the Cupra León Competición he campaigned, but he will make the move to a machine he could have used to defend his first tile.

“I’m delighted to announce my return to the TCR UK Touring Car Championship for 2026, I am looking forward to getting my teeth into the DTR with CBM run Honda Civic Type R FL5 TCR,” Boardley stated. “Whilst a new business acquisition has kept me away from racing last year, I’m back, hungry and ready to put in the required work to fight at the front of the field with one clear aim: to win the 2026 title.

“I’ve never been afraid to take on a new challenge in Motorsport, and this year is no different. I’m with a new team, a car that hasn’t been near the front in UK competition previously, that is new to me and I’m coming back after a year’s break. The hunger hasn’t gone away, and more than ever, I want to make my mark on the Championship by becoming the first driver to win the title three times.”

Boardley was offered the opportunity to acquire the FL5 that Chris Smiley raced in 2023 during a title defence that returned only one podium. The car, in its first season of competition, did not suit UK tracks. Smiley, who admitted that he had turned his head back towards the BTCC during the season, struggled to find the sweet spot of the machine.

DTR have already announced Harry Bloor in another FL5. Max Hall at Hall’s racing will also race the FL5, but the experience that Boardley brings will likely – from the Honda drivers announced so far – see him lead the charge of the JAS built machines in a championship lineup that already looks stronger than when Boardley took his second crown.

Championship Manager Jack Finlan stated he was pleased that Boardley has returned, becoming the 11^th driver to commit to a full season campaign.

“I’m very pleased to see Carl make his return to TCR UK, especially as part of the DTR Honda lineup. This news is testament to where the championship is at this time as we build up towards the new season. Carl’s record in the championship speaks for itself, and I have no doubt he will be a title contender this year,” he said.

“Carl’s previous time in TCR UK has shown that he is capable of working hard to develop his car into not only a race winner but a Championship one and stay consistent throughout his championship challenge across a full season. Having a two time champion joining DTR alongside Harry is a real statement of intent of what is to come this year from the drivers and team. The bar has been raised for 2026.”