2007 Renault UK Clio Cup champion Martin Byford will make his championship return this weekend in the 2013 season finale at Brands Hatch, replacing Paul Rivett at Stancombe Vehicle Engineering.
Byford will compete in the BTCC support category for the first time since he claimed the title six years ago, having competed in the BTCC, SEAT Cupra Championship and Britcar at various points since.
Byford’s return will make a little piece of Clio Cup history, he will be the only driver to have competed in the first ever race in the UK for the third generation Clio Cup racer in 2007, and also this weekend’s swansong outing in the national series.
“At this stage I really don’t know what to expect, Paul has obviously done it in that car so there’s nothing wrong with it, hopefully we can run towards the front,” said Byford. “I’m under no illusions though, it’ll be incredibly tough against drivers who have been racing all year. I got the call late on Tuesday night from Colin…it didn’t take long for me to say yes!
“This will be the first time I’ve raced a Clio since the day I won the championship, it’s been a long time away and a while since I’ve raced front-wheel drive. It’s quite nice I was there at Brands for the first race in this Clio in 2007 and now I’ll be there for the last. I’m really looking forward to it.”
“Of all the people to step in and race my car, I couldn’t think of anyone better than Martin,” added Rivett. “He’s a good friend, I’ve known him a long time and we’ve had some great races together. I’m really pleased he’ll be out there.”
