Jason Plato predicts even stronger Donington show

Early British Touring Car Championship leader Jason Plato says his Triple Eight MG will be even stronger at the next meeting at Donington Park, after leaving Brands Hatch with a pair of wins and a fifth place.

The double champion heads the standings on 54 points after pipping Andrew Jordan’s Eurotech Racing Honda Civic to the flag in race one, and dominating the second race despite carrying full ballast.

Plato’s team-mate Sam Tordoff also took third in the final race, at a track the team thought would be better suited to the Hondas.

Plato said: “We were pleased last year because we knew the car had pace and performance. It was too hard to drive, and we have managed to refine it.

“We have got a car now which feels good. What I am particularly pleased about is race two. Out of the box, we destroyed the field with 45kg on, and that was the best balance we had.

“I think we are going to get to Donington and we are going to be quicker still. It is a circuit that will suit our car better than Brands.”

On his team-mate’s podium, Plato added: “I’m really chuffed for him. It is great having him in the team, and I enjoy working with him.

“The team’s got a good vibe about it, and this is what wins championships.”