Dave Newsham exits BTCC to join British Rallycross

Dave Newsham will play no part in the 2016 Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship after confirming he will switch to British Rallycross.

Remaining with Power Maxed Racing, the Inverness-based racer will swap driving the NGTC Chevrolet Cruze to getting behind the wheel of an ex-FIA European Rallycross Championship Ford Fiesta in the British series.

Having made his debut in the BTCC in 2011 after graduating from the Renault UK Clio Cup as champion, Newsham has gone on to become a fans favourite. Driving for a total of six teams, the 48-year-old clinched two victories and a further three podiums in his time and is now looking to adapt the skills he picked up in the BTCC to use in Rallycross.

“I’m really looking forward to a great season in British Rallycross,” said Newsham. “I love watching the action on TV, its one of the most exciting forms of motorsport there is. I had the pleasure of sampling it for myself at the 2014 Grand Prix – that got me hooked.

“I really enjoyed working with PMR last year and I am delighted to be remaining part of the family and looking forward to a long future with the team. Their professionalism and skill will stand us in good stead in British Rallycross.

“Rallycross will take a bit of getting used to as I’ve spent the last few seasons trying to avoid the gravel but getting behind the wheel of a 600BHP monster is going to be fantastic, I can’t wait!”

Power Maxed Racing boss Adam Weaver added: “It is great news for the team that Dave has agreed to take a sabbatical from the BTCC to help PMR in our development year in British Rallycross.

“British Rallycross has long been on my radar and I’m really pleased to be entering this year. I’m incredibly passionate about rallycross. We are taking a phased approach into the championship, this year we will be entering a proven car from 2015 before going on to build our own cars for 2017.”

Independent-outfit Power Maxed Racing are yet to confirm either of their drivers for the upcoming BTCC season having been granted two TOCA BTCC Licences for a second successive campaign.