Tuesday, October 16 2012

Andrew Jordan is in the unique position of fighting for two titles at this weekend's Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship finale (20/21 October). The Pirtek Racing Honda Civic driver retains an outside chance of the overall crown, whilst having to protect a lead in the Independents' championship.

It's the first time Jordan has gone into the final round with a shot at the title and he's not taking it for granted. "Anything can happen," he said. "I'm aiming to put it on pole and win the first race and if the others have trouble then we'll see. Unless I'm out of it there's no point in not trying, so we'll see what happens in the first race. The chances of going any further are slim but we'll try to win and see what happens."

At the same time Jordan is confident of lifting the Independents' trophy. "We have a good chance," he predicted. "We have a 28 point lead, so we're in the driving seat. At Silverstone we had a 58 point lead but that was our worst circuit and we had a non-finish. Brands Hatch Grand Prix is our best circuit, so we should be very strong, so it would take problems and DNFs to lose. However, we're not taking anything for granted."

Unlike the main championship, the Independents' title is often fought out over the minor places, right in the mid-pack where anything can happen. After his troubles at Silverstone this is definitely something that plays on his mind. "Definitely qualifying is important," he explained. "We'll have a boost increase for Brands Hatch and it's one of the strongest circuits for us but we'll need to qualify out front.

"Silverstone was down to boost levels and there are not many areas for good drivers to show their abilities," he continued. "The DNF was because of that. Brands Hatch Grand Prix is a ballsy circuit, so it will sort out the field. There will be less risks than Silverstone as the top drivers will be at the front."

Jordan's position in the championship has undoubtedly been helped by Pirtek's agreement with Honda Racing to help develop the Civic by running two of the NGTC-spec cars. But does this mean he is obliged to help deliver a title for the marque if he cannot do so himself? "I'd like a Honda driver to win," he said. "But I've got my own championship to win and we want to win both the Independent drivers' and teams' titles. The others are experienced and they can sort it out for themselves."

Tickets for the Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship on 20/21 October are available from £25, with free entry for children aged 12 and under. For more information call 0843 453 9000 or click here.