Ricky Collard to step in for father Rob at WSR

Ricky Collard will make his British Touring Car Championship debut this weekend as the BMW junior driver steps in for his injured dad Rob at West Surrey Racing for the Rockingham and Knockhill rounds.

Collard Sr has been advised to sit out the next two BTCC meetings at Rockingham and Knockhill on medical grounds after suffering a concussion, as a result of his high-speed shunt at Snetterton.

The BMW Motorsport Junior driver already has previous experience of driving the WSR run BMW 125i M Sport BTCC machine after testing the car at Silverstone late last year.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for me. I’ve been around the BTCC paddock throughout my childhood and teenage years watching Dad race – mostly with WSR – and I’ve been desperate to compete in the series for a long time, especially for a team with their record of success," said Collard.

"While I never wanted my debut to be under circumstances like this, Team BMW are one of the best in the BTCC, have won the championship for the past two seasons and are right in the thick of the title battle again.

"My target is to do the best job I can and help score as many points as possible for the Teams’ and Manufacturers’ championships.”

Having already been impressed by Collard Jr during his previous with the BMW team last November, WSR boss Dick Bennetts is sure the 22-year old will do the job necessary.

“While we’re extremely sorry for Rob and wish him a speedy return, we’re pleased to be able to give Ricky Collard, a young driver with a huge amount of talent, an opportunity to drive the Team BMW 125i M Sport at Rockingham and Knockhill," said Bennetts.

"Ricky tested the BMW with us last November and was extremely impressive. For a young driver who had never been behind the wheel of a touring car before, his pace and – in particular – his technical feedback, were very strong.

"It will be very important to use the free practice sessions wisely as we try to get him up to speed as quickly as possible. I’m sure he’ll do a good job.”