Daniel Lloyd switches to TCR after splitting with MG BTCC team
British Touring Car driver Daniel Lloyd will switch to racing in the TCR International series this weekend following his split with the factory MG BTCC team earlier this week
Lloyd has signed a deal to join the Craft-Bamboo Racing team to drive one of its SEAT Leon TCR machines, making his debut at the Salzburgring round in Austria this weekend before completing the remaining six rounds. The team also runs Briton James Nash.
The 25-year-old, who announced his split with the Triple Eight team that fields the two MG6 machines in the BTCC on Monday, replaces ex-WTCC racer Hugo Valente, who has opted to retire from racing with immediate effect.
Lloyd is previously known to the team, having been part of its plans in the GT Asia Series in 2015.
Lloyd said: "I'm really excited to be joining Craft-Bamboo Racing.
"The TCR International series is something that I have wanted to be part of for a while now.
"My relationship with the team goes back to 2015 so it was quite ideal for me to join them.
"I have some really good memories of racing with them and helping them win the GT Asia title with Darryl O'Young and I now have good experience in front-wheel-drive cars too.
"Although TCR is a bit different [from the BTCC] I am very happy to be back in the same team."
Craft-Bamboo CEO Richard Coleman said: "We are disappointed to lose Hugo at this stage of the season as he's one of the most naturally talented drivers I've worked with, but I am delighted that Daniel was on the market at the right time and I am sure he will be able to win races and help the team achieve its goals."
Valente raced in the WTCC for four seasons, including a stint with the works Lada team last year, before his TCR move.
He took two podium finishes in the first part of 2017, but said he decided to stop racing partly for family reasons.
"Unfortunately, the results were not as I expected so I've decided to step away from the sport," said Valente.
"I have my own family to take care of now, my little girl is nine months old and nothing makes me happier than being with her.
"I want to give her the same life I've been given from my parents and I know that's nearly impossible to do as a racing driver.
"It's been a difficult decision and not taken lightly but I'm ready to turn the page and start doing something new."
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