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What a way to celebrate your birthday! The UK’s premier tin-top series kicks off its 50th anniversary season this weekend with a bumper grid.
A total of 26 drivers will line up at Brands Hatch on Sunday – and more of them than ever will be capable of lifting the HiQ British Touring Car Championship crown. So Fabrizio Giovanardi faces a tough time defending his title. The Italian is joined at Vauxhall by two-time champ Matt Neal, who is keen to add to his trophy cabinet.
Giovanardi will lock horns again with Jason Plato. The 2001 winner will drive SEAT’s rapid new diesel Leon this season.
BTCC gallery
Ready, steady, go!
As the teams line up for the new BTCC season, we run the rule over all the contenders in our comprehensive championship preview...
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Drivers: Jason Plato, Darren Turner, Car: SEAT Leon TDI S2000
Expect the brand to challenge Vauxhall for race victories and the title. Using the same diesel as the WTCC cars should give the Leon a straight-line performance advantage, while 2001 champ Plato will want to improve on his 2007 runner-up spot. In his second season, Le Mans winner Turner should have strong pace.