Photo: Jakob Ebrey

Nic Hamilton sets focus on regular points

Nicolas Hamilton says he hopes that he can become a regular contender for points finishes this season when Team HARD introduces the new CUPRA Leon into the BTCC.

Hamilton remains with the team for a second season having opening his points account in 2020 thanks to a top 15 finish at Brands Hatch – a rare highlight in what was a tough campaign with the Volkswagen CC.

The decision to switch to the CUPRA has been made in the hope that Tony Gilham’s team will be able to move forwards up the grid during the year ahead, with Hamilton hoping that the new car will allow him to enjoy his best season in the series to date.

“We’re not quite sure where we are in terms of pace from testing, as a lot of our work has been on developing the car and preparing for Thruxton,” he said, ” but so far, so good.

“The new car feels together and fresh and you can’t compare it to the Volkswagen at all. What we have to do now is to try and make the most of the platform that we have, and when we have four of us in the team, we can try various things to move forwards.

“My target is to try and be a regular top 15 runner this season and I feel that is possible, but I know this year will be tough. It alway is in the BTCC, but there are no longer any ‘old’ cars and everyone now have newer equipment which makes the challenge even greater.

“I’m sure I can push for points this season, and to get towards the back end of the top ten is the ultimate goal.”