![Ashley Sutton, NAPA Racing UK [Alliance Racing], Ford Focus ST NGTC](https://www.touringcars.net/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Ash-Sutton-Ford-Focus.jpg "Photo: Pat Cranham")
Reigning British Touring Car Champion Ash Sutton says he is hungry to achieve a record-breaking fifth drivers’ title in this year’s BTCC, as he prepares to embark on his third season with NAPA Racing UK at Donington Park this weekend.
Sutton, 30, had his best-ever season in the BTCC last year, as he won a record-equalling 12 races, stood on the podium 20 times and secured an all-time high of 446 points on his way to a record-equalling fourth drivers’ title.
The Alliance Racing-run NAPA Racing UK team has conducted extensive pre-season testing with its quartet of Ford Focus ST cars, with visits to Snetterton, Brands Hatch, Croft and Donington Park in recent weeks.
Sutton also heads into the new season off the back of having extended his contract with NAPA to the end of 2026.
“I’m excited for the new season and looking forward to the battle that lies ahead,” said Sutton. “The opportunity to become the first driver to win five BTCC titles is huge and something that I’m hungry to achieve – although it’ll be tough as ever as we’re set for another competitive year.
“Last season is consigned to the history books and despite all of the success that we had we’ve certainly not taken our foot off the gas when it comes to improving the car.
“In fact, we’ve really focused on fine-tuning the overall package and the feedback we had in testing was positive.
“Everyone up and down the pit lane will have made a step forward over the winter but I’m remaining level-headed and dialled into the job that we are doing.
“Confidence is high within the team and I’m optimistic that we’ll be in the mix from the get-go.
“We have a new qualifying format to contend with, more power from the hybrid and the option tyres this year so I think all of those elements will play their part in making things even more interesting towards the front of the field.
“Heading into Donington Park this weekend the aim is to make sure that we have a solid showing in qualifying on Saturday and then put three strong points finishes on the board on race day.
“If we can pick up some silverware that will be even better!”