German racing driver René Kircher will join reigning teams’ champions ALM Motorsport at the upcoming round of the TCR Europe series this weekend at the Red Bull Ring, marking his return to TCR after almost a year away.

The TCR Germany and TCR Eastern Europe regular effectively made his TCR Europe debut at Brno last year when the TCR Europe and TCR Eastern Europe series ran together at the Czech circuit. The 25-year-old was then behind the wheel of an older generation Honda Civic Type R FK7 TCR, but will now be competing in the latest model from the Japanese manufacturer, the FL5, this weekend.

Kircher was the championship runner-up in the 2023 TCR Eastern Europe season, taking two victories that year, and will now be looking for a strong showing this weekend running with the front-running Estonian squad at a circuit where he has much experience from his time in the category.

“I am super excited to start in TCR Europe at the Red Bull Ring with ALM Motorsport,” said Kircher. “It’s going to be a tough weekend but together with the team I am ready for the challenge.”

“We are really pleased to welcome Rene to ALM Motorsport,” said team principal Martin Laur. “He is one of the greatest young talents in touring car racing. We’re looking forward to build his confidence in the car and team throughout the weekend. The European TCR level is really high, so it is not easy but we’ll give our all to provide him a soft landing and environment where he feels good.”