Airwaves BMW will be looking to regain the top place in the Independents championship this weekend as the British Touring Car Championship heads north to Scotland.
History suggests that the team has struggled at the 1.3 mile circuit, but Mat Jackson will be looking for a repeat of his 2009 race weekend which saw him on the podium for all three races.
“BMWs have not done so well at Knockhill over the years,” says Jackson. “But this year the Airwaves BMW is a good one and we're capable of winning. Traction is on our side here but, unlike the front wheel drive cars who can keep their foot down, the off-camber surface means the rear wheel cars have to be a little more reserved at times where others may just hang on.
“It's very rare for your car to be facing in the direction you want it to at Knockhill, so as a driver it's a challenge I love, but I think I can manage a top five finish in each race – we'll just have to watch out for the LPG cars turning on the go-faster switch. I've looked but I'm not sure our car has one!”
Steven Kane has fond memories of the circuit after he won his first ever British race there when he raced in the Formula Ford series, he also has valuable experience in a variety of other cars including Porsches, Formula 3 and touring cars.
“The BMW's biggest advantage may be at the exit of the Real Radio Hairpin, thanks to the level of traction we can sustain; however, the 10-metre wide track should provide ample opportunities for passing up the hill – even if it is on two wheels!” said Kane.
It’s clear that Kane is looking forward to the challenge of the technical Scottish track: “I really can't wait for Knockhill, it's totally different to every circuit in England with its banked crests and rough surface. Many people think it's all about having big balls and guts here but the truth is you have to be precise. On short laps if you're not perfect Knockhill gives the guy behind every chance to pass, so it's technically challenging to keep your pace over the race distance. Out of the hairpin our cars have an advantage, but then up the hill that moves over to the turbo cars. It will be tough, but what race in the BTCC isn't?”
Airwaves BMW Team Manager Oliver Collins added: “I'm looking forward to Knockhill, we've had a couple of tough race meetings with Silverstone and Snetterton suiting the cars which are faster in a straightline, so now we have a real chance of a good result. The weather is usually a factor at Knockhill but I think we can be competitive wet or dry. As usual I'm sure there will be three very exciting races for those watching.”
