Josh Files weighing up WTCC options for 2017

Josh Files is contemplating stepping up to the FIA World Touring Car Championship in 2017. The 25-year-old Briton, winner of the ADAC TCR Germany title this season, accompanied advisor Andy Priaulx, the three-time WTCC champion, on a visit to the Losail International Circuit in Qatar yesterday.

He used the opportunity ahead of this week’s WTCC DHL Race of Qatar to speak to a number of teams as he considers his options for the next step of his promising career, which has included winning Renault Clio titles in the UK and Europe in the past.

“Next year we’re weighing up WTCC so I’m here with Andy, who knows half the paddock, if not more,” said Files. “I’ve come to say ‘hello’, speak with JAS to see what their plans are having driven their Honda this year, and to see what other people are doing.

“You can see the WTCC is at a massively high level and above all other touring car championships I’ve seen. The cars are on another level too with a lot of R&D, they’re special pieces of kit.”