Colin Turkington labelled his return to West Surrey Racing as ‘the dream scenario’ as they prepare for a maiden British Touring Car Championship campaign under the Team BMW banner.
His return to the manufacturer-backed BMW team – with which he won both of his championship titles – came after splitting with Team BMR’s works Subaru programme in January despite scoring five race victories last year.
Turkington is currently testing the team’s upgraded BMW 125i M Sport – minus the new B48 engine – at Castelloli Circuit in Spain alongside new team-mates Andrew Jordan and Rob Collard.
Speaking to TouringCars.net during the team’s press launch at Park Lane in London last week, Turkington is encouraged by past success and predicted a strong 2017 campaign.
“I’m delighted with the opportunity that’s been presented – it’s the dream scenario,” he admitted.
“It’s every driver’s dream to drive those iconic BMW colours, it’s a real honour to do that. [WSR are] such a great team, obviously our strong history together gives me confidence for the season.”
Turkington admitted securing a deal with Dick Bennett’s outfit required some quick movement, after his split with Team BMR left him precariously placed in an market with an increasingly short supply of competitive seats.
“I had to act very quickly because this is a coveted seat,” he commented.
“I knew there was an opportunity here and the chance to get myself back in the BMW – I was aware of the upgrades and improvements there were going to be in the winter – as a driver you want to position yourself in the best team and the best car, and for me this was it.”
He also admitted that, given a choice between his new berth and remaining with BMR for a third consecutive campaign, he believes returning to WSR represents the most fruitful option.
“My natural affinity would be to return to a team and a car I know so well because of our history together and taking the two titles. It’s pretty clear that this represents the best scenario for me to win and ultimately that’s what I’m here for. Sometimes you don’t get a choice in these things, but I’m confident I’ve made a good move.”