Cook Returns to BTCC with Toyota as Dorlin Steps Aside
In a significant development for the British Touring Car Championship, veteran driver Josh Cook is making an anticipated comeback, stepping into a Toyota Gazoo Racing machine for the conclusion of the 2025 racing calendar. This unexpected shift arrives after his previous team, One Motorsport, announced its premature exit from the current season. Meanwhile, rising talent James Dorlin, despite demonstrating notable progress this year, will temporarily withdraw from active competition, aligning with a strategic long-term vision for his career within the team.
This mid-season driver change underscores the dynamic and often unpredictable nature of top-tier motorsport. Cook's return to a familiar environment at Speedworks, coupled with the absence of the hybrid system's weight, promises an intriguing performance boost. Concurrently, Dorlin's strategic pausa highlights a growing emphasis on meticulous career planning and development within the competitive landscape of touring car racing, setting the stage for future triumphs.
Cook's Resurgence with Toyota Gazoo Racing
Josh Cook, a highly experienced and successful competitor in the British Touring Car Championship with 20 race victories to his name, is making a rapid return to the series. He will be piloting a Toyota Gazoo Racing with IAA entry for the remaining three events of the 2025 season. This opportunity arises after One Motorsport, Cook's previous team, confirmed their withdrawal from the rest of the championship, leaving him free to pursue other opportunities. Cook's familiarity with the Speedworks-run team, having raced with them previously, and his recent role as a driver coach for rookie Max Buxton, who debuted at Croft, position him well for this immediate reintegration into the competitive field.
Expressing his excitement, Cook eagerly anticipates rejoining the track in the Toyota. He extended gratitude to Speedworks Motorsport for the last-minute opportunity and looks forward to collaborating with the entire Toyota Gazoo Racing UK with IAA crew and his new teammates. Cook highlighted the significant change in car dynamics, noting the Toyota's 55kg weight reduction due to the removal of the hybrid system. He acknowledges the need for initial setup adjustments to achieve optimal performance and comfort, but with his deep knowledge of the team and their comprehensive understanding of the car, he remains confident in their ability to quickly adapt and pursue strong results. This unexpected return adds another layer of intrigue to the final rounds of the championship, as a seasoned veteran seeks to make an immediate impact with a familiar and capable outfit.
Dorlin's Strategic Sideline for Future Growth
James Dorlin, a new entrant to the British Touring Car Championship this year, has demonstrated considerable potential and impressive performances throughout the season. He has notably secured two "Quick Six" appearances in qualifying sessions and achieved 10 points finishes, showcasing his raw speed and ability to consistently place within scoring positions. Despite these commendable results, a "mutual decision" has been made for Dorlin to step back from the final three race weekends of the current championship campaign. This decision is not a reflection of his performance but rather a strategic move aimed at preparing him for the upcoming 2026 season, signifying a long-term investment in his development.
Team principal Christian Dick underscored that Dorlin remains an integral part of the team's future. He confirmed that Dorlin will continue to be present at all three remaining race weekends, actively engaging with the team in the garage, ensuring his continued involvement and learning. Dick praised Dorlin's progress over the season and emphasized that this temporary hiatus is mutually beneficial for his long-term prospects, allowing him to dedicate his focus entirely to preparing for a strong return in 2026. Dorlin himself acknowledged the difficulty of this decision, given the strong relationships he has built within the Speedworks and Toyota Gazoo Racing UK with IAA setup. However, he echoed the sentiment that stepping back now provides a crucial opportunity to refine his skills and work collaboratively with the team towards the ultimate goal of contending for podium finishes and race victories in the 2026 championship. This calculated pause in his racing endeavors highlights the strategic foresight of both the driver and the team in nurturing future success.