Honda could run new Civic Type R model in BTCC in 2015

The Japanese firm's future participation in the series had been questioned due to its Formula 1 entry with McLaren, but negotiations are ongoing for a 2015 tin-top plan.

A Honda spokesperson told AUTOSPORT: "We haven't finished our deal for 2015, but it is absolutely our intention to run in the BTCC again in 2015, especially with the launch of the new Civic Type R."

If confirmed, the move would mean works squad Team Dynamics switching back to a hatchback-style body for its NGTC contenders, after one season with the Civic Tourer estate (pictured).

BTCC champions Gordon Shedden and Matt Neal have both won races in the Tourer this season, but their championship campaigns have been troubled.

After a difficult Rockingham weekend, Neal pointed to the BTCC's boost regulations as an issue for the team's VTEC engine, which was also new for 2014.

"The car's great but it's not got a TOCA engine," said Neal.

"The first speed trap [at Rockingham] is fine because it's halfway through a corner but there's not a single Honda in the top 20 in the middle speed trap."

He also warned the issue had threatened Honda's future involvement, before the spokesperson's comments.

"Honda will pull out of the championship," added Neal.

"So they [TOCA officials] have done their job because what they want is Honda out of the championship."

GOW DISMISSES COMMENTS

Series boss Alan Gow responded to Neal by pointing to the fact that Honda has won three consecutive drivers' titles.

"We've heard those moans for the last three seasons about their engine power," he said.

"And in that time, the Honda Civic has won every drivers', teams' and manufacturers' championship.

"Moreover, last year Andrew Jordan in an independent Civic won the championship, beating the works Team Dynamics cars.

"At Rockingham Jordan was the top Honda driver - and he's not even using the latest-spec VTEC engine like the works cars - while the two Team Dynamics cars went backwards.

"Clearly they need to direct their frustration elsewhere, but if they think I'm going to just sit back and accept their outrageous accusation about us wanting Honda out of the BTCC, then they can think again."