Controversial BTCC Driver Returns, Aiming for Dominance Once More
Personal low and recovery
He sank to his lowest point and says he tried to take his life twice. Friends, including Brawn, helped him through the dark times. The move into team ownership has given him renewed purpose.
New team, late start
The project only began to take shape in October last year. He admits the programme is behind schedule and that he has never run a team before. Experienced staff have joined, though few have worked on a project of this scale.
He has also recruited top personnel from rival outfits. That aggressive hiring has unsettled some competitors. He expects a charged season with plenty of on-track and off-track drama.
From driver to principal
The shift requires a new mindset for the former driver. He recognises that team leadership is about responsibility, not individual glory. He knows mistakes can harm others and must act accordingly.
RML partnership and technical setup
RML has leased a unit to Plato Racing. That same unit supported his run to a second title in 2010 in a Chevrolet Cruze.
Under the BTCC’s NGTC regulations, RML supplies key suspension components across the grid. Those parts include wishbones, pushrods, rockers, uprights, steering systems and front and rear subframes.
- Wishbones
- Pushrods
- Rockers
- Uprights
- Steering systems
- Front and rear subframes
RML is also building complete cars, a role it previously filled with Chevrolet, Vauxhall and Nissan projects. Company CEO Paul Dickinson says he understands rival teams’ concern about potential advantages.
Dickinson worked to reassure BTCC boss Alan Gow that the supplier relationship would be fair. RML built the A-Class Mercedes cars, then handed them to Plato’s crew to run. At events RML staff will appear in RML shirts and operate from the RML truck selling parts. They will not be in Plato’s truck optimising the cars.
Outlook
The controversial BTCC driver returns determined to rebuild. He is aiming to regain dominance while learning the demands of team management. Filmogaz.com will monitor the campaign as it unfolds.
