The official BTCC website has been speaking to Carl Boardley, ahead of the Jack Sears Trophy runner-up’s switch to title-winning Infiniti machinery in 2021…

Switching to the Infiniti is an exciting move for you, what are your expectations of driving a much newer car?

I’m really excited to get my hands on some up to date machinery, a car which has been engineered very well and one which I hope will enable me to show just what I can do given the right car and environment with which to operate in. I’m expecting to be in the mix right from the off. 

You seemed to be better suited to RWD machinery in 2020, is this something you enjoy more, or feel is better suited to your driving style?

I certainly enjoyed 2020 more than 2019. I wouldn’t say that the FWD/RWD is really an issue as I have driven in a variety of disciplines and feel that I can adapt reasonably quickly to my surroundings. In the BTCC you have to have everything spot on, both on and off track to be competitive.

Last year you proved to be quite the contender in the Jack Sears Trophy, finishing second in the standings. Who do you think will be your biggest competitor in the title battle this year?

There’s a few that will fancy their chances but I really think that I should be going one better this year!

In 2020, you significantly increased your number of points finishes, and with the Infiniti proving its speed last year, your first top ten finish must be in your sights in 2021? What other goals do you have for this campaign?

The car has proven itself so it’s now down to the driver to do the same, as I feel for the first time, I have all the tools at my disposal. We improved our number of points finishes in 2020 but in honesty that wasn’t difficult! The aim is to gain confidence with the car, score regular top ten finishes and push towards the podium.

Obviously prior to the BTCC you raced in various series, was the BTCC always a goal for you to get into?

Pretty much, we were close to it around 2012/13 time, but then I had three years of health problems and underwent multiple operations. Being told by surgeons that you’ll never be able to even race again was motivation enough to work harder to achieve that goal.

Following a full campaign without the option tyre, how do you expect its reintroduction will affect your tactics on a race weekend?

I’m really looking forward to maximising that tactic to my advantage, I missed that last year and really believe it spices things up for both the drivers and the fans alike.

How excited are you about the Laser Tools/Team HARD collaboration, it seems like there will be lots of talent and experience on hand which will surely benefit everyone?

I think it will be really good for everyone! Experience in this championship is vital so I’m sure we will all benefit in multiple ways and both teams will have a fruitful campaign.