Honda Civic FL5 set for TCR UK return

The Honda Civic Type R looks set to return to TCR UK in 2026 after series bosses revealed plans for a multi-car programme next season are currently being worked on.

The FL5 version of the car debuted in the series back in 2023 in the hands of Restart Racing and Chris Smiley, with the Northern Irishman moving over from an older-spec Civic Type R to defend the title he had claimed the previous year.

A third place finish in the opening race of the year at Snetterton would prove to be the best result of the campaign, with Smiley the only person to have raced the FL5 in the UK after Restart’s move to the BTCC in 2024 saw the car disappear from the grid.

Developed by JAS Motorsport, the FL5 has however gone on to secure multiple titles elsewhere across the globe and was named a ‘TCR Model of the Year’ in for 2024.

No information has been revealed in terms of which team will be responsible for running the cars, or who will be behind the wheel, but it is expected that they will benefit from significant JAS technical support as a customer outfit.

“It’s fantastic news that we have the Honda brand back in the UK,” series promoter Stewart Lines said. “The Honda TCR car has had massive success globally, its one of the most competitive touring cars ever produced.

“These are the first three additions to the TCR UK grid for 2026, proving that the new association with BARC and the calendar provided is having a massive positive effect going forward.”