With James Dorlin forced to withdraw from the remainder of the 2026 British Touring Car Championship campaign, Restart Racing have opted for Dan Lloyd as his replacement.
2025’s Independents’ Trophy winner returns to the grid in what is sure to be a popular move amongst BTCC faithful. However, it comes at the expense of Dorlin – who had enjoyed a breakthrough weekend at Thruxton just two rounds ago.
The five-time BTCC race winner last took the flag at Silverstone last year, claiming Restart Racing’s first and only BTCC victory.
Despite his success, funding hurdles caused Lloyd to be unable to compete from the start of the 2026 season.
“First of all, I want to say that I know this is a difficult situation for James,” Lloyd conceded.
“I’ve been in that position myself before in my career and I know how tough it can be. He’s a very talented driver and a great guy, and I genuinely wish him all the best for whatever comes next.
“From my side, I’m absolutely buzzing to be coming back.
“Restart Racing feels like home to me and what we achieved together last year was something I’ll never forget. To win the team’s first outright BTCC race and then finish the year as Independent Champion was incredibly special.”
Despite his lack of full-time drive during the campaign, Lloyd has stayed on as Restart’s reserve driver.
“I’ve stayed really close to the team this season, working with everyone at the race weekends, so I’ve never really felt like I’ve been away from it. That makes coming back into the car feel very natural.
“I know the Hyundai, I know the team, and I know how hard everyone works behind the scenes.
“I’m coming back hungry, I want to enjoy it and, most importantly, I want to help the team finish the season as strongly as we possibly can. I can’t wait to get back behind the wheel at Donington.”
James Dorlin leaves Restart Racing on a positive note after Thruxton
Being the second season in a row where Dorlin has had to withdraw due to his budget, the Yorkshireman will naturally be disappointed.
However, he can be proud of his achievements in 2026 as a Restart Racing driver, notably claiming a haul of accolades at the Thruxton round.
Building on his Jack Sears Trophy success at Brands Hatch Indy, a stunning weekend at the speedbowl saw Dorlin claim another JST win, two Independents’ victories, and the Goodyear Wingfoot Award.
“I’d like to thank Pete, Chris and everyone at Restart Racing for the opportunity and for all of the work they have put in during my time with the team,” Dorlin said.
“There have been some challenging moments this year, but also some really positive ones, and Thruxton in particular showed what we were capable of when everything came together.
“I’ve enjoyed working with the team, and I’m grateful to everyone involved, as well as my partners and everyone who has supported me throughout the season.
“I wish Restart Racing all the best for the remainder of the year and I’m looking forward to what comes next.”
Discussion about this post