BTCC 2023: Sutton versus Ingram after title duo star at Silverstone

Rounds 25, 26, and 27 of the 2023 British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) proved to be an unforgettable event at Silverstone on September 23 and 24. BMW celebrated its 149th and 150th BTCC victories with wins from Jake Hill and Colin Turkington. However, it was Ash Sutton and Tom Ingram’s impressive performance in race two that had the crowd on their feet.

Race one saw Laser Tools Racing with MB Motorsport’s Jake Hill make a last-minute decision to switch to Goodyear wet tires, leaving his competitors behind and securing victory. The drizzly conditions caused chaos on the pre-grid as teams and drivers had to make a critical tire choice. Hill’s decision proved to be the right one as he comfortably won the race in his BMW 330e M Sport.

In race two, NAPA Racing UK’s Ash Sutton delivered an outstanding performance, fighting his way from 23rd on the grid to claim an extraordinary victory. Hill seemed to be on track for his second win of the day until a safety car intervention changed the game. Sutton and Ingram, both title contenders, were battling their way through the field and took advantage of the restart. Sutton made a crucial move on the final lap, diving down the inside of leader Árón Taylor-Smith to snatch the lead and secure the win.

The third race saw Colin Turkington of Team BMW take BMW’s 150th BTCC victory. Starting from the reverse grid, Turkington made progress early on and overtook NAPA Racing UK’s Dan Rowbottom to claim the lead. Tom Ingram also made his way through the field and finished in second place. This win was significant for Turkington as it marked BMW’s milestone 150th victory in the BTCC.

With these results, Ash Sutton now leads the Drivers’ standings by 45 points, with Tom Ingram in second place. The duo will go head-to-head for the title at Brands Hatch in two weeks’ time. BMW remains in charge as it aims for a record tenth Manufacturers’ crown. Josh Cook has already secured an unassailable lead in the Independents Drivers’ table.

The final BTCC event of the season will take place at Brands Hatch on October 7 and 8. Fans can watch the action live on ITV4. NAPA Racing UK and One Motorsport with Starline Racing will be looking to wrap up the Teams’ and Independents Teams’ titles at the legendary Grand Prix circuit in Kent.

The BTCC races at Silverstone showcased the skill and determination of the drivers, with unexpected twists and turns throughout the weekend. Ash Sutton’s remarkable comeback from 23rd on the grid to victory in race two was a standout moment, demonstrating his talent and determination to secure the championship title. With only two races left, the battle between Sutton and Ingram is set to be intense and thrilling.

The BTCC continues to captivate motorsport enthusiasts with its close and competitive racing. The 2023 season has been filled with excitement and surprises, and the final event at Brands Hatch promises to be a fitting end to an incredible season. Fans can expect more thrilling battles, strategic tire choices, and intense rivalries as the drivers fight for glory on the iconic circuit.

As the BTCC heads into its final event, all eyes will be on Ash Sutton and Tom Ingram as they battle for the championship title. Will Sutton maintain his lead and secure his fourth BTCC title, or will Ingram stage a comeback and claim his first championship victory? The stage is set for an epic showdown at Brands Hatch, and fans can’t wait to witness the thrilling conclusion of the 2023 BTCC season.