Honda’s decision to enter a third factory car in the FIA World Touring Car Championship is a shrewd move according to long-term factory pilot Tiago Monteiro – and not just because it makes the firm eligible for the new-for-2016 Manufacturers Against the Clock contest.
Monteiro, who is preparing for a fourth full season as a works Honda driver in the WTCC, will race under the Castrol Honda World Touring Car Team banner along with new recruit Rob Huff. Norbert Michelisz, another new signing for 2016, will represent Honda Racing Team JAS when the WTCC gets underway at Circuit Paul Ricard in France next month.
“We’ve been asking for three cars from the very beginning,” said former grand prix driver Monteiro. “Three cars was always very important strategically-wise but also for pushing each other. There are many pros and not a lot of downsides to have three cars. It’s a lot more positive sporting wise and outside of the car as well. It’s all good and it’s looking very promising.”