Evans Halshaw Power Maxed Racing have their sights set on silverware this weekend (August 24-25) as the Kwik Fit British Touring Car Championship prepares to return to Donington Park - albeit this time to tackle the Grand Prix circuit.
Less than two weeks on from an action-packed outing at Knockhill which yielded mixed results, the Worcestershire-based team - spearheaded by Vauxhall Astra duo Árón Taylor-Smith and Mikey Doble - heads into the eighth meeting of the season keen to make its mark.
Back in April, Donington Park provided the setting for the opening round of the 2024 campaign where both drivers kick-started a sensational run of results that have since seen them establish a lead in the Independent Drivers’, Independent Teams’ and Jack Sears Trophy standings.
An impressive 14 wins to-date for Taylor-Smith sees him hold the advantage in the Independent Drivers’ Championship and while he’ll be eager to extend his lead over team-mate Doble, the Irishman will undoubtedly be on the hunt for more overall podiums too.
Having shown plenty of front-running speed since the turn of the summer break, the 34-year-old will be buoyed by the fact that he made it onto the rostrum when the UK’s premier motorsport series tackled the Grand Prix layout of Leicestershire venue last year.
Doble meanwhile has the been the cream of the crop when it comes to those battling for Jack Sears Trophy honours and he heads into the weekend sitting atop the leaderboard with a 69-point lead over his nearest challenger.
Looking to bounce back from a frustrating weekend north of the border last time out, the Surrey-based racer is focused on getting three solid points finishes under his belt to ensure he’s in a strong position ahead of the title run-in.
Qualifying at Donington Park is scheduled to be broadcast on the ITV Sport YouTube channel on Saturday from 14:50 before all three races are aired LIVE on ITV4 on Sunday. Race one is scheduled to begin at 11:30 ahead of race two at 14:35 and race three at 17:25.
Árón Taylor-Smith: “I’m really looking forward to be heading to Donington Park this weekend! This was where we claimed our first podium last year and given the car was quick then, I’m excited to see where we stack up given we’ve progressed things even further.
“As a circuit, the Grand Prix layout suits my driving style and the Vauxhall feels like it’s in a window that can compete with anyone at the moment. Add into the pot that the team are operating at such a high level and there’s no reason why we can’t be aiming high.”
Mikey Doble: “It’s fair to say that Knockhill was a weekend to forget for myself so to be going straight into Donington Park this weekend provides me the perfect opportunity to bounce back as I’ve got a point to prove. The Grand Prix circuit is one I love and I’ve got great memories there.
“As always, the aim is to maintain the lead I’ve built up in the Jack Sears Trophy and if we can eat into Árón’s advantage in the Independent Drivers’ that’ll be a bonus. We should have a strong car so it’s about nailing Saturday and then playing it smart on Sunday.”
Martin Broadhurst, Team Manager: “We’re heading into the home stretch of the season and now more than ever, every single point is going to be crucial as we fight for championship honours on three fronts.
“Since the turn of the summer break I feel like we have elevated our performance, especially over one lap. On race day we perhaps haven’t had the rub of the green to truly show what we’re capable of however I feel confident that we should have a strong package this weekend.”
Adam Weaver, Team Principal: “This time of the season is always extremely exciting and to be in a position where we could win three titles is something that is providing even more motivation to every single member of the team.
“Our car really came to the fore at this event last year and with the development work that we continue apply, there is no reason why we shouldn’t be strong this weekend. Both Árón and Mikey are slick operators and they’ll be well worth keeping an eye on!”
