After looking like a strong result was on the cards, it was a case of what could have been at Brands Hatch, after a small error meant we were on damage limitation from the outset on Sunday. However, it really did highlight what a strong team and overall package we have within the Blackthorn AMR set up. We are also still challenging for the title with one round to go, so the chase is on.

We arrived at Brands Hatch with one clear target. Running with no penalties, and we have got the car set up in a strong window, we were aiming to be back on that top step. Qualifying went to plan, with another great effort by Giacomo running at the sharp end of his session. The car felt great around the Grand Prix layout – always a special place to run – and we ended the session firmly on the front row, feeling confident.

Race day looked good, and the first corner would be a question of who was feeling bravest. And it turned out that the outside line into Paddock Hill Bend was the faster line, so the dream start. Unfortunately, a mix up on the grid meant we had a penalty hanging over us, which would end up with a drive through penalty, but that almost spurred us on even more – if that was possible.

Now, chasing down the pack, our pace and set up really came to the fore as Giacomo quickly started the recovery effort. Quick and decisive moves saw us climb back up the order and, at middle distance, we were back inside the top five as Giacomo brought the car in. We continued to push for the second half of the race, running quicker than all the cars ahead and closing the gap. At the line, we finished P4, so narrowly missed the podium we were hoping for. However, we were ahead of championship rivals and, crucially, the result means no compensation time penalty heading to the last round.

We will always want to be at the front, and that’s what drives us to do what we do, but a really positive weekend overall. Everyone makes mistakes, but it’s how we deal with them and bounce back that really defines things in the end. A top four finish, great pace, important points, and we head to my seventh Donington Decider final round, chasing down one last place in the standings. There’s work to do, but we have shown we aren’t afraid of that and always rise to a challenge.

One to go, and it’s a big one. Donington Park, 4-5 October, can’t come soon enough…

British GT 2025 –

Team: Blackthorn AMR

Car number: #7

Circuit: Brands Hatch, UK

Race: P4 (P4 Pro-Am)

Drivers’ championship: P2

Teams’ championship: P4