Smith set to make Mondello debut

Ireland's Gavin Smith will make his Green Flag British Touring Car Championship debut in front of his home fans later this month after agreeing a short-term deal.

The 25-year-old will replace Kelvin Burt in Team Sureterm’s Vauxhall for the three races at Mondello Park in Co Kildare, and Smith hopes to prove a point to potential future employers.

Smith, who is racing in the Seat Cupra Championship this season, said: “The BTCC is where I want to be full-time and this is a golden opportunity to show what I can do, particularly with my knowledge of Mondello and in front of my home crowd.

“My goal is to finish in the top 10 and score some points, although it’s going to be a whole new world.

“The BTCC is the pinnacle of touring car racing and the action makes it one of the most exciting championships anywhere in the world.

"But I’m confident I can cut it and that my performances could leave the door open for a return later in the season.”