Irish eyes on Honda

For series returnees Honda, it is a completely new experience, but with Irishman Alan Morrison behind wheel the Civics are assured of an enthusiastic reception.

"Oddly, I've never been to Mondello, but for sure it will be good to be racing in Ireland," said Morrison. "Hopefully I can get a good result both for the team and the local fans."

Team-mate Andy Priaulx came close to taking the marque's first top three finish of the year last time out at Silverstone, and although the twisty Mondello circuit presents a different type of challenge for the cars, the team is optimistic of once again pushing the Vauxhalls and MGs at the head of the field.

"It's never easy going to a new circuit with no past experience," said team principal Mike Earle. "However, the Civic has got stronger and stronger with each appearance and I'm confident our first podium is just around the corner."