2015 BTCC: Robb Holland is back with Handy Motorsport's Avensis
Experienced BTCC racer Robb Holland has been confirmed as a new driver of the Handy Motorsport’s Toyota Avensis. The 47-year-old American driver will replace Handy’s Team principal Simon Belcher at the next three events of 2015 British Touring Car Championship calendar – Snetterton, Knockhill and Rockingham.
Holland moves into the driving seat of Belcher’s Avensis for the next nine races thanks to backing from long-time sponsor Oakley Motorsports in connection with existing commercial support from Belcher’s headline sponsors Webb Garden Power Equipment and KÄRCHER. Simon Belcher is stepping aside from the competition for budgetary reasons and will return to racing action for the final two events at Silverstone and Brands Hatch.
“We’re delighted to welcome Robb into the team, he’s exactly the sort of driver we wanted and everyone at the team is looking forward to working with him for the first time. We wanted someone with BTCC experience and a desire to try and help the team move forward, and Robb fits the bill perfectly. We can’t wait to see how he gets on at Snetterton,” said Belcher.
“I am very excited to be back in the championship. I’ve been working hard to put something together since I found out Rotek Racing wouldn’t be returning. I want to thank Simon Belcher, his existing sponsors and my long-time partner Oakley Motorsports for helping to make this happen. It will be tough jumping back into the championship halfway through the season, but the Avensis seems to be a really good car and the team is strong as well. I am sure they’ll help me get up to speed quickly and we can make some good progress,” commented Holland.
Holland debuted in BTCC in 2012, becoming the first American driver since 1975 in the championship. In 2012, he contested selected rounds in a Honda Civic, next year he moved to Vauxhall Insignia and in 2014 he had all-season campaign with Rotek Racing’s Audi S3, the same car which is now piloted by Nic Hamilton.
Before the first race meeting with Handy Motorsport in August at Snetterton Holland will get his first experience of the Toyota Avensis during the official Dunlop tyre test tomorrow at Snetterton.
