Four-time Renault Clio Cup champion Paul Rivett will join Motorbase Performance to stand in for Andy Neate at the next two Kwik Fit British Touring Car Championship events at Knockhill and Thruxton respectively.
Rivett has been drafted in to pilot the second Racing with Wera & Photon Group Ford Focus for this weekend’s trip north of the border and will stay with the team for the visit to Hampshire on 28/29 August.
Neate continues his recovery after suffering from COVID-19, having previously been forced to withdraw from the recent Oulton Park event after qualifying, and is now targeting a return to full fitness at Croft in September.
Rivett brings a wealth of experience to the team having won four Clio Cup titles (2002, 2004, 2011 and 2018) and made his BTCC debut last season after securing a drive in a TradePriceCars.com Audi S3 for the final rounds at Snetterton and Brands Hatch.
The 42-year-old picked up his maiden points finish with a credible run to 15th in only his fourth race in the championship at his home circuit Brands Hatch.
“I can’t wait to get into such a fantastic car with such a fantastic team,” said Rivett. “After my first experience in a BTCC car last year I have been waiting to get back out in a touring car ever since.
“While it is a great opportunity for me I really hope that Andy is back to full fitness soon.
“I would just like to say a massive thank you to Motorbase and Wayne Eason for making this possible. Dreams can come true.”
Andy will now focus on his recovery in anticipation of his BTCC return next month.
“Sadly, COVID has truly taken a hold of me this past month, and having spent some time in intensive care post-Oulton Park, there is simply no way I can be fit in time for Knockhill or Thruxton,” said Neate.
“I’ll be back for the final four weekends of the BTCC all being well and if things work out ok for me. Until then I’ll be wishing Motorbase luck in my absence. More importantly though, if I can’t make it to the track I’ll be watching Aiden Neate in F4 from my sofa in his next two race weekends.”
