Goodyear BTCC Brands Hatch preview: Tyre freedom for final showdown

Teams can choose which tyres to use for qualifying and all three races

Brands Hatch will bring to an end another action-packed season of racing in the British Touring Car Championship. For the first time this season, teams will be able to decide their own tyre allocation split between Goodyear’s soft and medium compounds.

This season has featured thirty races over the course of ten thrilling and diverse weekends, which could end with a record-equalling fourth BTCC title for NAPA Racing’s Ash Sutton. 

In the championship, Sutton leads the way by 45 points, so he could clinch the title after race one on Sunday if he doesn’t get outscored by Tom Ingram by more than five points.

Sutton has already won the overall Goodyear Wingfoot Award, which awards drivers for their qualifying performances. Sutton has five pole positions in 2023 so far.

Teams given free rein on tyre choice

Going into the action this weekend, each driver will receive one set of soft, two sets of mediums and a free choice of a further three sets of soft or medium. Both compounds must be used at some point during the three Sunday races.

In qualifying, drivers can use whatever they like, however, no mixing of sets will be allowed. 

Michael Butler, Goodyear’s BTCC Event Leader: “As we end another season, I’d like to thank our impeccable team that travels to each race and ensures our operation runs smoothly. 

“We’re all excited to see the action on track this weekend. A final showdown to decide the championship always gets the crowd going. Unlike every other round this season, teams will be given the freedom to decide which compounds they use, which adds another layer of strategic variety. 

“On track, we’re looking forward to the drivers’ championship being decided. Both Sutton and Ingram have driven fantastic seasons. All the best to them as they write another chapter of BTCC history.”

Photos: Connor Botha