Jeff Smith targeting more podiums this year

A confident Jeff Smith says it’s all down to him to make the most of his machinery this season as he chases more podium finishes for Pirtek Racing.

The 46-year-old will again drive the Honda Civic which propelled him to his first BTCC podium finish in race three at Knockhill last season.

And the Wellingborough-based racer says a successful winter fitness regime, allied to carrying out more testing than rival teams, will stand him in good stead to taste the champagne again this year.

Smith said: “We have little bits of development and we’ve been out testing as well, which unusually not a lot of teams have been.

“Although it’s been really cold, we’ve found some bits, so we’re looking really good I think.

“The podium in Scotland was a real boost for me, but I need to do it consistently. Health-wise I am probably fitter than I have been for many years as I worked hard over the winter.

“It’s all looking good. It’s another year on the grid, and hopefully we will be up there with some more podiums. The car’s good enough, it’s just up to me.”

Smith is also optimistic the rules will be more in his favour this year, following the constant controversy over turbo boost regulations in 2012.

He said: “It has been frustrating at times with the boost regulations. Parts of last season were very frustrating. This year, fingers crossed they have got it sorted.”