SEAT in three-pronged title tilt

After 27 dra­matic and often controversial clashes, this year’s title race is going right down to the wire on Sunday at Silverstone. And, to boost Plato’s bid, the team is fielding a three-car line-up for the first time this season.

With the drivers’ title still in the balance, SEAT is going all-out for glory. James Thompson and Darren Turner have shared the second Leon entry, but to give Plato maximum support in his hour of need, both team-mates will be on the starting grid at Silverstone.

Neal is desperately trying to become the first driver in the modern era to clinch back-to-back BTCC crowns, and his historic title defence was on target until he crashed out at Brands Hatch.

That handed Plato a lifeline, as he’s 35 points behind with 52 up for grabs this weekend. Yet the odds are stacked in Neal’s favour; if the Team Halfords star finishes any of the three races in front of Plato, he will clinch the championship.

“I could have the perfect weekend and qualify on pole, win three races and set three fastest laps and still not take the title,” admitted Plato. “Anything can happen, of course, and if Matt gets a bit of bad luck for a change and we have a good run, who knows?”

Watch the thrilling conclusion to this year’s Auto Express-backed BTCC on ITV1 from 16.00-17.30 on Sun­day. Better still, catch the series decider live at Silverstone; tickets are £20 on the gate, with free access for accompanied children aged under 16.