SEAT confirms entry

The British arm of the Spanish manufacturer had originally intended running in the European Touring Car Championship next season, but has now committed to a campaign in the domestic series.

2001 champion Plato, who has acted as a mentor to the Cupra Challenge drivers this year, said: "I'm very excited about returning to the BTCC and sparring with some old racing rivals again.

"I think it's great that SEAT UK is doing the BTCC next year because the series is going from strength to strength and it's good news for the BTCC that a new and dynamic manufacturer will be involved in one of the world's premier saloon car championships."

Huff said: "It's much better for me to be doing the BTCC rather than the ETCC because, with the exception of Mondello, I have already raced at all the circuits."

BTCC boss Alan Gow said: "I am delighted that SEAT UK has decided to add the BTCC to its dynamic marketing drive in this country and I know that it will prove to be a great competitor in this fantastic Championship."

The cars, which will be built in Spain, will be entered by SEAT UK and run and maintained in Britain. SEAT Sport will provide technical support through its ETCC team.