Macanese racer Filipe Clemente de Souza will return to the World Touring Car Championship later this year, having agreed a deal to race an RC Motorsport LADA in China and Japan.
De Souza, who last raced in the WTCC in 2014, is the most prolific Macanese racer to try out the WTCC, having taken part in 20 races between 2011 and 2014.
His most recent efforts came in a TC2 car in the 2014 era, and his return to the WTCC in a LADA Vesta will mark his first outing in a TC1 car, run by the Eurosport-supported RC Motorsport squad.
“In my racing career I always like challenges and higher-level competition,” said de Souza. “This is my aim and I’ve always believed my path belongs to the WTCC and to be part of the WTCC family. I’m racing for my dreams and for my country.
“It’s going to be a bit tough for me since I have never driven at either track and the car will also be new but I will try my best. Like all drivers I want to fight for the highest position possible.”
At present, de Souza’s return is only for the next two events in October. His potential participation at his home event in November is currently not confirmed.
Francois Ribeiro, Head of Eurosport Events, the WTCC promoter, was pleased to have de Souza, who has recently raced in TCR Asia and TCR China, back in the WTCC.
“It’s great to have Filipe back in the WTCC and for RC Motorsport to have a third car on the grid,” said Ribeiro. “The 2017 WTCC season is very competitive so it will be a challenge for Filipe but he has the right attitude to take the most out of this opportunity.”