Photo: Jakob Ebrey

Dan Zelos to make BTCC debut at Donington Park

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Dan Zelos will make his debut in the British Touring Car Championship at Donington Park this weekend, joining EXCELR8 Motorsport to fill the vacant seat that has become available following Ronan Pearson’s departure.

Following yesterday’s news that the Hyundai squad and Pearson had amicably parted ways with immediate effect, Zelos will now make his long-awaited bow in the UK’s premier motorsport series after spending a number of years as the teams official reserve driver.

Zelos is no stranger to BTCC fans having been a mainstay of the TOCA support bill for a number years, starting out in Ginetta Juniors before then going on to enjoy success in the Renault UK Clio Cup and most recently the MINI CHALLENGE JCW.

Driving for EXCELR8 in the JCW category, the 26-year-old has broken all records on his way to three historic titles – the latest of which he won earlier this month at Knockhill.

“Obviously it’s a shame that Ronan won’t be in the car for the rest of the season as he is someone who I have raced with as a team-mate and who I value as a friend, but on a personal level, I’m thrilled to have the unexpected opportunity to join the BTCC grid at Donington Park,” said Zelos.

“I was all set for a weekend coaching EXCELR8’s drivers in the MINI CHALLENGE Trophy and now all of a sudden, I’m going to be getting coached by the other drivers on how to get the best out of the Hyundai instead! Competing in the BTCC is what me and my family have been working towards throughout my career and even if this weekend turns out to be a one-off, I’ll be able to say we got there.

“Taking my place on the grid is going to be a huge honour, particularly with a team that I have shared so much success with through the years. As a driver, you always go out to try and win but I’m going into the weekend being realistic as I’m up against a strong field that has been racing all season.

“I hope to put on a competitive showing and fight in the pack, but at the same time I want to keep my nose clean and not get mixed up in any trouble. Most importantly, I want to keep a smile on my face, but I can’t see that being a problem!”