Hungary-based Zengö Motorsport and 2012 Yokohama Trophy winner Norbert Michelisz secured Honda’s technical support to take part in the 2013 and 2014 FIA WTCC with a brand new Honda Civic.
The agreement means that Zengö Motorsport have access to all technical developments, although they remain an independent team. The racing car is being built in Italy by J.A.S. Motorsport, while the engine comes from Japan.
Team principal Zoltán Zengö said: “After winning the Yokohama Trophy we needed new goals to aim for. In Honda we have found the perfect partner to fight for the World Championship. We thank Honda Hungary for their support and feel honoured that in Japan and Italy there’s a top level racing car under construction for us. To fully focus the team’s resources, we decided to enter only one car in the 2013 season.”
Norbert Michelisz added : “I’m excited to have the opportunity to join a brand with such a history in motorsport like Honda. In terms of driving, switching from RWD to FWD won’t be easy in the beginning, but with the dedication and help from Honda and my team, now I can focus on long term goals: becoming a more complete driver, winning more races and hopefully having the chance to fight for the overall championship in the near future.”
János Reisz, managing director Honda Hungary commented: “From the start of negotiations between Zengö Motorsport and Honda, we and our dealers have done all in our power to help this partnership become real. All the ingredients are there for a successful campaign and we keep our fingers crossed for Norbert and the team.”
William De Braekeleer, Motorsport Manager Honda Motor Europe concluded: “We have always been committed to making the Civic WTCC available to private teams, so we can’t be more delighted with this announcement. Zengö Motorsport are a professional outfit and Norbert Michelisz is a talented driver. We are really honoured by their choice and the trust they are putting in our car. We are pleased to be able to count on them to help us in the manufacturer title’s fight and it is our aim to provide them with the best package.”