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Martin Depper targets strong campaign with Motorbase switch

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Martin Depper says he is hoping to enjoy his best season to date in the BTCC after confirming a switch to Motorbase Performance for the 2017 campaign.

Depper will join Mat Jackson and rookie Luke Davenport in an expanded three-car team this season after moving over from Eurotech, where he has spent the past three seasons competing in a Honda Civic.

The 48-year-old has already sampled the Focus after a test prior to Christmas and will now seek to regularly challenge for points in a bid to improve on his best championship finish of 18th back in 2015.

“I’m over the moon to be joining the Motorbase team for the 2017 campaign,” he said. “When I tested the Focus back in November, I quickly found pace in tricky conditions, so I’m really looking forward to carrying that forward and making my fourth full season in the BTCC my best yet.

“I’m also really excited to be partnering Mat and Luke as I’m sure we will work well together and show real strength in our team work.”

Team boss David Bartrum meanwhile said he was confident that Depper would spring a surprise on track during the year ahead.

“Martin has been in the championship for a while now, so he knows exactly what to expect,” he said. “He tested the Focus at the end of last season and quickly got up to a strong pace in the car. We were equally reassured with his pace and ability both driving, and tuning the car to his liking.

“I’m sure we’ll see him fulfilling his potential as a BTCC driver this year and providing a few surprises along the way.”