Ahead of the sixth round of the BTCC Championship this weekend at Knockhill in Scotland, we caught up with Speedworks Toyota Gazoo racer Ricky Collard to see how his season is panning out.
The Drum
GAZOO DRIVER RICKY COLLARD: “MOTUL PRODUCTS ARE ESSENTIAL FOR THE BTCC”
14.07.2022
Ricky, where did your love for racing come from?
My dad used to race in British Touring Cars Championship. I’ve grown up around these paddocks since the age of three, watching my dad race all around the country supporting him. Now it’s his turn to be dragged around the country to support me instead [laughs]. That’s what got me into motorsport. My grandad also raced and was a world champion in hot rods. I feel like my time is now and BTCC is where I want to be.
How would you describe the BTCC?
The BTCC is the wildest, craziest, boomiest racing you’ve ever seen. You’ll see a lot of action and chaos, and it’s awesome. It makes good TV. Personally, I think this is one of the most difficult championships. It’s really good that I’ve had vast experience in multiple championships around the world. Maybe I’m a little bit of an old head on young shoulders, but I do think this is one of the hardest championships.
What is it that makes the BTCC such a unique form of motorsport?
I love the fact the racing is so close, that we have proper gearshifters, that we can heel and toe and blip the throttle. And the spectators can come and stand right at the action. I think that’s what makes BTCC so unique. And it’s going in the right direction with sustainable fuels and hybrid systems.
The season is about halfway through, what are your expectations for the remainder?
The fans can expect a lot of action. I want to be in the action. It’s going to be all-out racing. My objectives for this year were just to go out and have fun. I’m so relaxed and have no expectations. This is one of the hardest championships in the world and I just want to enjoy myself, learn a front-wheel drive touring car and learn how the racing works. This is a new challenge for me, and the level has increased as it does every year. I’m not here to make up the numbers. I want to get podiums and win, but I am going to go out there every time with a smile on my face.
Motul is a partner with the team and features proudly on the side of your BTCC racer. What does Motul mean to you?
I’m super grateful Motul is back for the 2022 BTCC. They have really helped me secure the drive this year. I’m a massive believer in their products. I race motocross bikes as well and use Motul in those. Having Motul branding on the side of the car shows what a great product it is and having them onboard is a great privilege. Motul products are essential for the BTCC. You have to use the highest rate oil, whether that’s for lubrication or engine oil. Motul works to the highest standards. We all know they are a great product and well-known brand.
