Motorbase Performance’s Tom Chilton is eager for success at his team’s home British Touring Car Championship round at Brands Hatch this weekend.
Still in mathematical contention for the Drivers’ title – albeit 64 points adrift of leader Colin Turkington – Chilton is keen to keep the pressure on title rivals Turkington and Tom Ingram until the final race.
Chilton has a far more realistic shot at the Independent Drivers’ championship as he sits just 20 points adrift of leader Ingram with 60 points available from this weekend’s triple header.
The Knockhill race three winner believes qualifying will be difficult carrying the championship success ballast, but he will be aiming for silverware on Sunday.
“I think the top 3 guys in the championship are going to be hurt really badly by the weight in qualifying,” said Chilton.
“We’re carrying 57kg into qualifying and race 1 with our nearest rivals behind only on 39kg, which is a big drop in weight. With that in mind, the others could all look like heroes on Saturday afternoon.
“It’s going to be a very exciting end to the season. I think the BTCC will see the best of me this weekend. I’m going for it. As soon as I get a sniff of something I’m gone, and although it’s a long shot I can see the overall title within reach so I’ll be pushing hard.
“This is my 12th year in the BTCC and 16th year in touring cars so I know exactly where I need to be and what I need to do so I’m feeling confident. I’m looking forward to spraying champagne on that podium on Sunday night!”
Motorbase are also in contention for the Independent Teams’ championship, currently with a ten-point deficit to Speedworks Motorsport.
Team Manager Oly Collins is hoping Motorbase can use their home advantage to good effect, as the squad’s base in Wrotham is just five minutes away from Brands Hatch.
“The final is here! We’re excited to be one of only 3 cars in the title fight,” said Collins.
“It may be a long shot but we’ll be giving it our all and as we know, anything can happen in the BTCC. We’re in a very good position in the Independent Titles’ fight and can hopefully bring some home advantage to the final round this weekend in our own backyard!
“It’s been a great debut season for the RS this year and 2018 has been a year the whole team can be very proud of. A season of highs and lows and key turning points has become typical in the BTCC and this year has delivered exactly that!”