Clio champion Bushell to make BTCC return

Bushell graduated to the BTCC with AmDTuning.com Ford Focus in 2015 after winning the Clio Cup.

He took one top 10 finish on his way to 23rd in the standings, before reverting to Clio racing and finishing second in the championship before winning it again this term.

Team Hard will field four VW CCs in the BTCC next year and has already signed up VW Cup graduate Bobby Thompson for one of its machines.

It has formed a link-up with Brisky Racing for 2018.

"I am ecstatic to be returning to the BTCC having notched a second UK Renault Clio Cup title," said Bushell.

"On top of that, I am excited to be making my return with Team HARD and Brisky Racing as they have been going from strength to strength.

"With the new technical input from [newly signed engineer] Geoff Kingston, coupled with an already proven race-winning car in the Volkswagen CC, I firmly believe that a strong challenge can be made for the Independent Drivers' title next year.

"I am itching to get out on track and in the car for our first test and build a strong relationship with everyone.

"The team has pulled out all stops to help me return to the BTCC grid and I look to reward them with some great results."