Jake Hill enjoys ‘successful day’ at Donington Park

Laser Tools Racing’s Jake Hill enjoyed a ‘successful’ start to the British Touring Car Championship season at Donington Park, as the BMW driver bagged a brace of podiums and a fifth in the opening event.

Hill qualified his WSR-run BMW in fourth in Saturday’s new multi-part qualifying format, having also been fourth in the 12-car Q2 shootout beforehand.

Raceday saw a long rain-induced delay, and when the action finally got underway on a wet circuit, Hill jumped up to second at the start with a fast getaway from the line.

With more than half the race run behind the safety car, Hill was unable to hold the position in the final six laps of racing, being passed by Ash Sutton for second four laps from the finish.

Hill nonetheless held on to third to open his campaign with a podium result – which he duly followed up on in race two with another third-placed finish.

That was despite another strong start which saw him lead early on, passing both Sutton and Tom Ingram into the first corner and leading for 13 laps, before he lost out to both in quick succession at Redgate and the Old Hairpin on the 14^th tour.

Having crossed the finish line in third, Hill was then drawn to start race three from seventh on the grid.

Although he jumped up to fifth initially, Hill was involved in some close midfield battles and briefly dropped back to seventh, before taking the chequered flag in fifth.

His strong results, the second-best season start of his tin-top career, see Hill leave the opening round third overall in the drivers’ standings, 16 points behind leader Ingram.

“It was a successful day for me and the Laser Tools Racing with MB Motorsport team with third-place finishes in races one and two in totally different weather conditions,” said Hill.

“It was raining and very tricky in race one and then totally dry in race two, which was pretty good for seeing where we are in those types of conditions.

“Race three was extremely frantic with lots going on but we kept clear of it and got another good points finish.

“Leaving Donington third in the standings puts us in a great position heading to Brands Hatch and I’m confident we can keep the form going and collect more trophies!”

MB Motorsport’s Sporting Director Mark Blundell was happy that Hill had started the season on a strong footing.

“We’re really pleased with our start to the season at Donington Park,” added Blundell. “Jake and the team’s hard work and dedication paid off with two podium finishes, showcasing our potential and determination.

“I want to extend my gratitude to our fans, partners, and the entire team for their unwavering support and effort.

“We’re pleased with the results and eager to carry this momentum forward as we head to Brands Hatch.

“There’s still work to be done, but we’re confident in our ability to continue progressing and aiming for even greater success.”