Dan Lloyd Replaces Dorlin at Restart Racing for Rest of 2026

Dan Lloyd will replace James Dorlin at Restart Racing for the remainder of the 2026 British Touring Car Championship season. The move comes after Dorlin was forced to withdraw due to funding issues, and it has been widely welcomed by BTCC fans.

Lloyd, who won the Independents' Trophy in 2025, returns to the grid in a popular move. However, it comes at the expense of Dorlin, who had a breakthrough weekend at Thruxton just two rounds ago.

The five-time BTCC race winner last tasted victory at Silverstone last year, securing Restart Racing's first and only win. Despite that success, funding hurdles kept Lloyd from competing at the start of the 2026 season.

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Lloyd and Dorlin Speak Out

“First of all, I know this is a difficult situation for James,” Lloyd said. “I've been in that position myself and I know how tough it can be. He's a very talented driver and a great guy, and I wish him all the best.”

“From my side, I'm absolutely buzzing to be coming back. Restart Racing feels like home, and what we achieved together last year was something I'll never forget. To win the team's first outright race and then finish as Independent Champion was incredibly special,” he added.

Despite not having a full-time drive, Lloyd has stayed on as Restart's reserve driver and has remained closely involved. “I've stayed really close to the team this season, working with everyone at the race weekends, so coming back into the car feels very natural. I know the Hyundai, I know the team, and I know how hard everyone works,” he explained.

Meanwhile, Dorlin, who had to withdraw for the second consecutive season due to budget constraints, can still be proud of his 2026 achievements. At Thruxton, he claimed another Jack Sears Trophy win, two Independents' victories, and the Goodyear Wingfoot Award, building on his earlier success at Brands Hatch Indy.

“I'd like to thank Pete, Chris, and everyone at Restart Racing for the opportunity and all their work,” Dorlin said. “There have been challenging moments, but also positive ones, and Thruxton showed what we were capable of.”

With Lloyd back in the fold, Restart Racing hopes to finish the season strongly at Donington. This change also adds intrigue to the second half of the 2026 BTCC campaign.