Ben Collins couldn’t have had a worse day at Brands Hatch today as gearbox problems plagued him in both practice sessions resulting in him not running in qualifying.
Formally known as The Stig, Collins suffered a cooling issue with the gearbox and despite the best efforts from the team and the gearbox suppliers they could not overcome the problems.
Team Principle David Bartrum explained “I'm gutted for Ben as the gearbox issue plagued us from the first moment today and we couldn't get round it, even after rebuilding the box on several occasions.”
In a bid to get Collins out on circuit tomorrow the team will be working through the night to supply and fit a brand new gearbox before tomorrow’s first race.
“I'm very disappointed as I didn't get to drive a lap in anger,” said Collins. “I suppose that will come in tomorrow's first race. The guys are working overnight on the gearbox so I can only hope they can get the job done and I'm sure they will. I'm looking for a zero to hero moment and my BTCC debut would be a great place for it.”
Team Principle Oliver Collins added: “I'm extremely frustrated for Ben on his debut, having such bad luck and these unprecedented problems are not what we expected with one of our race cars, although we're convinced he will turn a disappointing Saturday into an exciting a positive result tomorrow.”
Fans will be hoping to see Collins take to the grid with the Brands Hatch British Touring Car Championship finale providing the first public event and race meeting for Collins since his secret identity was confirmed.
