Reigning title-holder Ash Sutton is prepared to kick-start the defence of his crown during the 2021 Kwik Fit British Touring Car Championship, which is set to begin around Thruxton Circuit this weekend (8/9 May).
Off the back of a sensational 2020 season, which saw him clinch the biggest prize in UK motorsport for a second time, as well as wrap up the Independent Drivers’ title, Sutton remains with Laser Tools Racing to pilot the Infiniti Q50 once again.
With the coveted number one adorning the side of his rear-wheel drive machine, the 27-year-old enters the forthcoming campaign in high spirits, buoyed by an encouraging pre-season testing programme.
Clocking valuable mileage at a number of tracks on the championship’s 2021 calendar, the BRDC Superstar has worked through a methodical schedule and admits the improvements that have been made have left him excited to begin the ten-event, 30-race season.
“It’s great to finally be able to launch the 2021 season and take the covers off the car to reveal the little tweaks to the livery,” said Sutton. “I think it looks mega! The anticipation and excitement have both been building in recent months, so it’s nice to know the season opener is just around the corner now.
“Over the off-season, we’ve worked hard to evolve the car. It has almost been like having a blank canvas and we’ve been able to try lots of things we weren’t able to explore last year. There have been a few things that haven’t worked but, for the most part, the changes we’ve made have been reactive and unlocked some new avenues for us.
“Entering the season as defending champion and once again carrying that number one on the side of my car is a great reminder of what we achieved last year. However, it’s a new season and the competition is going to be fierce in the fight to retain the crown.
“I’m confident that we can arrive at Thruxton in a position to hit the front. I feel like I’m driving well and ready for the battle that lies ahead; I’m hungry to win a third title, so let’s get to work!”
The 2021 Kwik Fit British Touring Car Championship will blast into life around the fastest circuit in the UK on 8/9 May, albeit behind closed doors due to current UK government guidelines.
