Howell Motorbase Performance split

Motorbase Performance will continue to field two SEAT Toledos in the Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship this season, despite parting company with Gareth Howell.

A replacement for Howell alongside Matt Allison in the squad at Donington Park this weekend (14-15 July) is expected in the next 48 hours. Negotiations are on-going with several drivers.

BTCC rookie Allison currently holds 12th position in the BTCC standings, with Howell a point behind in 13th, although it the latter who has achieved the team’s best result to date in 2007 with a fifth place at Croft. However, in Oulton Park’s most recent rounds Howell heavily crashed his Toledo as the second race re-started after a safety car period.

In a statement, team principal David Bartrum said: “The amount of accident damage we’ve had so far has put pressure on the budget. The cars have spent a lot of time in the bodyshop and waiting for parts and that has hurt our testing schedule.

“Our cars have had seven big hits in three weekends, as well as the regular combat damage and it’s been tough for everyone.”

Bartrum continued: “We’re delighted with Matt’s performance and expect he will continue his excellent progress through the second half of the season.

“We will be a two-car team for the rest of 2007 and beyond. In the meantime, we wish Gareth well for the future.”