» WTCR: Audi switch for Coronel

Tom Coronel will remain with Comtoyou Racing for the 2020 FIA World Touring Car Cup season, however the veteran driver will switch from Cupra to Audi power.

The 47-year-old Dutch driver has been a touring car racing fixture since the early 2000s when he competed in the European Touring Car Championship. He joined the FIA World Touring Car Championship when it was relaunched in 2005 and raced full-time every year until it morphed into the WTCR in 2018.

The WTCR chapter of Coronel’s racing career has not been particularly successful, however, finishing 23rd overall in 2018 with Boutsen Ginion Racing Honda and 22nd last year in the Comtoyou Cupra.

Nonetheless, he is confident that a switch to Audi power – despite it being a complete customer programme – will yield better results in 2020.

“For me, racing with the same team for a longer time is important,” said Coronel.

“Last year, Comtoyou and me was a good match. Co-operation was pleasant for both sides and now we have made the switch to Audi.

“Technically, the Audi has many similarities to the Cupra I raced last year, but the RS 3 really surprised me during my first tests in Spain with the Goodyear tyres that are new for this year. It is different in several aspects and that gives me a good feeling.”

Images via Comtoyou Racing