N.Technology to run Accord in 2008

The team, which for the past two seasons has run Alfa Romeo 156s without factory backing, will field at least one car for WTCC race winner James Thompson in partnership with long-time Honda outfit JAS.

"This is a really exciting project for all concerned, JAS, N.Technology staff and James," said N.Technology boss Mauro Sipsz. "I have always had a lot of respect for JAS and now look forward to working together on the WTCC programme."

JAS, which ran factory Hondas in the British Touring Car Championship, last competed in the WTCC running the Accord on an independent basis in 2006, taking one podium finish with Ryan Sharp. The car also showed well in the Macau finale in the hands of Fabrizio Giovanardi.

"Finally we have the chance to be in the WTCC with a winning car and a winning driver," said JAS boss Alessandro Mariani. "This programme represents a great opportunity for JAS and all its people to show how good our car is with a great driver such as James Thompson at the wheel and a team like N.Technology."

It has yet to be decided what level of Honda involvement there will be in the programme, but it is understood to be likely the team would not be classified as an independent entry.

Former JAS BTCC driver Thompson, who turned down the chance of a move to Chevrolet to remain with N.Technology even when the team were unsure of their 2008 programme, paid tribute to the Italian team.

"The 2007 season was something of a fairytale," said Thompson. "We scored wins, podiums and enough points to ensure we remained title contenders until the very last race.

"I have always said how good the N.Technology staff are. The whole outfit works very well together; it feels like a family. I was offered other drives for next year but what I wanted most was to stay, which I am with a three year contract."