United Autosports has confirmed that Jim McGuire and Matt Bell will return to the team for the 2018 Michelin Le Mans Cup season, driving the #22 Ligier JS P3.

The pair joined forces for the first time last year, racing the #22 in the support race to the European Le Mans Series. They scored their first podium at the final round of the championship at Portimao, topping off a successful first year for the team.

Throughout the year, they scored six top 10 finishes, including a sixth place at the prestigious Road to Le Mans event. The Road to Le Mans event will once again feature in the calendar for Jim and Matt as round three of the Michelin Le Mans Cup.

“It’s super exciting to be returning to United Autosports for the Michelin Le Mans Cup this year!” Jim McGuire, driver, United Autosports said. “United Autosports is such an extraordinary team, Matt Bell is a mega co-driver and coach and the Michelin Le Mans Cup is simply the BEST! Between the team, the AERO-painted Ligier JS P3, the organizers, and the competitors, I’m probably at the epicentre of motorsports for the serious gentleman driver. I’m just thrilled to be returning this year to compete in the MLMC with United Autosports.”

“I’m really pleased we’ve managed to retain Jim and Matt for the 2018 Michelin Le Mans Cup season,” Richard Dean, team owner and managing director, United Autosports added. “Jim is a real personality to have around the team and Matt has been an integral part of United Autosports from day one.

“The pair did a great job last year and made real progress throughout the year so I’m hoping we can build on that in 2018. Seeing them come away from the final round in Portimao last year with a trophy was a great way to end the year so we will be aiming for more of that this season.”