FORMER double British Touring Car champion James Thompson returns to the competition this weekend after a three-year absence.

The York-born speedster is back in the national competition after his team in the World Touring Car Championship, N.Technology, withdrew from the competition.

Thompson said: “I have been racing in the World Championships since 2004, and since my team withdrew this year I have been without a drive. After the first race of the British Championship I was contacted with the chance to race again.”

Thompson will make his comeback at Thruxton, Hampshire, tomorrow for Team Dynamics alongside David Pinkney, although the opening round of the BTCC has already been held at Brands Hatch.

He said: “I think there’s a chance that we can win some races. This weekend is going to be really tough because there’s not much mileage in the car. Hopefully, we can challenge for the podium all of the time.

“I’ve been employed to go and get results for the team, so as long as I get the results I’m happy.”

Thompson, who is one of the most successful drivers in the BTCC’s 50-year history with two titles and 33 race wins, will drive the Honda Civic he tested when his team’s place in the WTCC became uncertain.

He said: “I drove the car just before Christmas, but it was wet and cold, so this is really the first time I’ve driven the car in anger. The car has won races in the past, so that proves it’s capable.”

Dynamics team principle Steve Neal said: “James’ addition to the Dynamics line-up is one I have personally hoped for since Matt Neal moved to VX Racing team at the end of 2007.

“James is one of the world’s top touring car drivers and I am absolutely confident that he can take the fight to the opposition and provide us with a further step-up in performance.”

Thompson’s return means there will be four past champions on the grid, with Jason Plato (2001), Matt Neal (2005 and 2006), and defending champion Fabrizio Giovanardi (2007 and 2008) also racing.