Tom Boardman targeting WTCC return in 2015

Tom Boardman will sit out the 2014 FIA World Touring Car Championship season, with the availability of the new specification cars the prevailing issue as it has been for a number of drivers, but the 30-year-old hopes to be back on the grid next season.

Boardman has entered the WTCC for three full-time campaigns in 2009, 2012 and 2013 with the SEAT León, finishing 22nd in standings last year, though the team missed four events due to ongoing issues following a heavy crash in the warm-up session at Marrakech.

The team had been working to be on the grid for this year, but the Lancashire-based squad have confirmed they will sit out this season and instead work to being back on the grid for 2015.

“It is obviously very disappointing not to be racing in the WTCC in 2014,” said Boardman. “I had a strong finish to the season last year and had been working towards a drive in the new TC1 class but this has not come to fruition. I am looking at getting some racing in for the 2014 season and am considering some offers at the moment. I am also working on the 2015 season and am looking forward to doing some testing later this year. I would also like to send my best wishes to all the drivers in the 2014 championship and hope the year is a successful one.”