Jason Plato and Sam Tordoff head to Brands Hatch for the final rounds of the 2013 British Touring Car Championship with one thing on their minds; victories.
Sitting fifth and sixth ahead of the return to the Kent track, the duo have taken seven victories to date in the 2013 campaign for the MG KX Momentum Racing outfit and Plato has an outside chance of the title.
Plato admits that the title is a long shot and he just wants to add to his record breaking tally of 80 victories in the BTCC. He took a double victory at Silverstone last time out to close to within 49 point of series leader Andrew Jordan.
“If I go out there and win as many races as I can, then that is all that I can do – I simply love the winning feeling, and want to taste champagne again before the season is out.
“Our car should be suited to the Brands Hatch Grand Prix circuit, which is one of the best drivers’ circuits in the country. In the dry, we are confident of a quick car and that means that I can push for victories.
Plato admits that securing his third title is unlikely as he needs all four of the title contenders to have a bad weekend for him to overturn the 49 point deficit, with 67 points left to race for at Brands Hatch.
“I am realistic and I know now that the championship is a really long shot for us,” he added. “That doesn’t mean that I am going to roll over. Attacking is the only way to drive and the only thing that I can do is to go out there and win as much as I can. The rest of the guys battling for the crown will fight their own battles and hopefully they will be behind me.”
Tordoff is looking to secure a top six Championship in his first full season in the BTCC. Having taken his first career victory at Snetterton plus three other podium finishes, Tordoff wants to sign off his 2013 season with another victory.
Mindful that his team-mate can still win the title, the 24 year old Yorkshire based racer will try and help Plato wherever he can over the weekend.
“I know that Jason has given himself half a chance in the chase for the title and I will do anything in my power to help him if I can,” said Tordoff.
“For me, it is about hitting the ground running and having a quick car from the outset. The configuration of the Brands Hatch Grand Prix circuit is one that will suit the MG. That means we can start working on the set-up and getting ready for qualifying – which will be vital.
“I have had a great season and the ultimate way to cap it would be to win another round. I will be giving it my all,” concluded Tordoff, who took a victory at Brands Hatch in the final round of the 2012 Porsche Carrera Cup GB.