Yoshimoto steps in for Nykjaer

Japanese driver Hiroki Yoshimoto will replace Michel Nykjær in the Nika Racing Chevrolet Cruze for the events in Suzuka and Macau.

The Swedish team ended their cooperation with the Danish after a successful series of events that resulted in three race victories, third position in the Drivers’ Championship and the co-leadership in the Yokohama Trophy.

“We are obviously disappointed not to be able to complete the season with Michel, but we’ve already achieved great things together this season, which was meant to be a pure learning year. While the competitive side of me would have preferred to carry on with Michel and continue fighting for second in the Drivers’ Championship, it’s also my responsibility to ensure a long-term future for the team. We don’t close any doors for the future, however, and Michel proved that he’s a first-rate driver on the international touring car arena,” said team manager Nicklas Karlsson.

Yoshimoto, 33-year old from Osaka, who is currently leading the class ST3 of the Super Taikyu series, has already made occasional appearances in WTCC, driving a SEAT León (photo) at Suzuka in 2011 and 2012. He will drive for Nika Racing also in the final event at Macau.