Maximum Motorsport has confirmed Josh Cook will substitute for Stewart Lines in it’s Ford Focus ST for this year’s British Touring Car Championship.
Cook joins after MG opted for Aron Taylor-Smith and Daniel Lloyd for the upcoming season, whilst Team Principal Lines was injured recently in an accident on his bike and was a doubt for the season opener.
The team is yet to score championship points in its sixty races thus far in the series.
“I’m elated to be back on the grid for 2017 – it all turned around in the space of 24 hours,” said Cook. “The support that I received when I announced my departure from MG was incredible. I’m immensely grateful to Stewart for enabling my return this coming season. It’s taken a lot of effort with multiple new sponsors but thank you to everyone involved. I can’t wait to get stuck into pre-season testing.
“I think we’ve got a great package with Maximum Motorsport, the Focus has been upgraded over the off-season and with Team Parker Racing looking after the operation of the car throughout the year, we should be pushing for strong finishes from the off.”
Lines admitted that, whilst a disappointment to not be competing in the series this year, he was optimistic that the acquisition of Cook would see the team reach new heights this campaign.
“After my accident, we started analysing our options forthcoming campaign to allow myself enough time for recovery,” added Lines. “When Josh announced he was without a drive, we grasped the opportunity to sign a very capable young talent.
“I’m disappointed that I won’t be lining up on the 2017 grid, as the car has undergone a significant programme of upgrades over the winter period and is now down to a much lighter weight. Despite this, I am delighted we’re running Josh this season and believe we’ve got the complete package to produce some strong finishes.”