BTCC PREVIEW: KNOCKHILL

“MENTALLY FRESH” TURKINGTON RE-ENERGISED AS HE PREPARES FOR KNOCKHILL 

Scotland will host the next three instalments of the 2019 British Touring Car Championship on Sunday, as Knockhill gets set to welcome the UK’s premier series for it’s annual visit North of the border.

BTCC BATTLE OF ENDURANCE

Following a four week break, the Championship battle will recommence in Scotland, with Team BMW driver Colin Turkington top of the pile.  Currently holding a 30 point lead, the triple Champion is “buzzing” to get back to business after taking time out to rest and recover before the final three events. 21 of the 30 races have been completed, with the remaining 9 due to take place over the next 5 weeks. Turkington suggests mental stamina has become more important than ever at this stage of the season, and is confident in his preparation.

BUNCHING UP

The Team BMW driver remains the Championship leader but the chasing pack are pushing hard in pursuit.  Following a tough Thruxton last time out, the triple Champion is well aware of the effort required throughout the remaining calendar, but remains more committed than ever.  Only thirty eight points now separate the top 4 in the standings heading to Knockhill, which is sure to increase the excitement at an already thrilling location.  Added to this is the use of the higher performance SOFT compound Dunlop tyre in qualifying and in two of Sunday’s three races.

RECAP ON THRUXTON HERE
WATCH THE RACES AGAIN HERE

COLIN TURKINGTON

“Planning my diary at the start of the season I knew it was vital to block out some rest for my mind and body.  You can easily find yourself at the final third of the season completely burnt out, when in fact, you need to be fresh in order to sustain and improve your performance. 

Spending time away from the sport and enjoying time with the kids was just what I needed.  Our heads are always on the job and this mental break has been refreshing.

I’m buzzing to get going again and feel re-energised following a very busy year so far.

Thruxton was a testing weekend for us last time out, but one that has added extra motivation. The spirit within the team to improve and rise to every challenge is so strong right now.  For a driver this can be such a positive source of energy.

It’s clear to see the landscape has changed around us but we remain committed to keep the focus on our own performance and continue to do every little thing to the best of our ability.  In a Championship as fierce as the BTCC, this attitude will always prevail. 

You depend on the attention to detail of your team at this crucial stage of the season.  I have no doubt in those around me.

Knockhill provides some incredible entertainment for the spectators and presents a physical challenge for the drivers with its turns and undulations.  It rewards bravery and I am excited by that. I have confidence the BMW will perform well and it’s up to me to unlock the ultimate potential in qualifying.  The success ballast won’t make it easy but I’m looking forward to the chase!”

THRUXTON RACE WEEKEND SCHEDULE

WATCH LIVE ON ITV4

Showing on ITV4 this Sunday from 11am, Knockhill will be broadcast LIVE  all day giving you unrivalled access to the action!

SOFT TYRES X 2 

In a new move for this season, the SOFT compound tyre will be used in qualifying and raced twice at Knockhill.  The MEDIUM compound (usually the standard tyre) will be regarded as the option tyre, and must be nominated for use in one race prior to qualifying on Saturday.

BTCC 2019

The remaining calendar in the 2019 British Touring Car Championship.

22,23,24    Sat 14/Sun 15 September    Knockhill   
25,26,27    Sat 28/Sun 29 September    Silverstone
28,29,30    Sat 12/Sun 13 October    Brands Hatch (Grand Prix)

To view the 2020 BTCC calendar please click here!

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