BTCC Interview – James Gornall: “Jack Sears Trophy Must be the Target”

It was announced at Autosport International that MINI CHALLENGE champion James Gornall would race with Bobby Thompson at Trade Price Cars Racing in 2020’s BTCC campaign.

Having expertly raced to his title in late 2019 thanks to an impressive 13 podium finishes, James will pilot a proven Audi S3 in Britain’s premier motorsport series.

Ahead of the first round at Donington Park on the 28th March, Gornall spoke to William Holmes about his maiden season, ambitions for the year, and his experiences in the MINI CHALLENGE.

Congratulations on winning 2019’s MINI CHALLENGE title. How did it feel when you realised you were the champion?

JG: Because of the fastest lap points available in each race I was not sure I had won until I got back to the pit lane! I had a good idea, but it was strange needing to wait all that time. I had all of the finishing position points clear in my head, but that was a variable I needed someone else to confirm. It was a great feeling to know I had wrapped up the championship, and I was keen to go celebrate with my team as soon as it was clear.

You will be in 2020’s BTCC campaign with Trade Price Cars Racing – how does it feel to know that you’re now a part of that illustrious grid?

JG: It’s been a long time coming. I grew up playing on the TOCA computer games and watching Super Tourers, but for one reason or another I headed down the single seater and then GT path.

I’m pleased to finally be a part of the BTCC as it is clearly the exciting and followed championship in the UK. The championship may not be featuring those fabulous Super Tourers any more, but the variety and level of competition out there currently is immense. I’m looking forward to playing!

“I’m pleased to finally be a part of the BTCC as it is clearly the exciting and followed championship in the UK.”

You will be behind the wheel of a competitive Audi S3, a car with victories to its name. Does this ease and nerves before your maiden season?

JG: I’m not nervous heading into the season, but I am excited to get going. Seeing the results that Jake [Hill] had in the Audi last year is very encouraging, and I would like to make sure the results keep improving. Wins are the target.

Have you always aimed to race in the BTCC?

JG: I have always wanted to have a crack at the championship. My journey to the BTCC has been an interesting one!

How has it been with your new teammate Bobby Thompson in the off-season? 

JG: I have known Bobby for just under a year, we have even worked together. So far I have been looking to him for advice on memes of all things! We haven’t talked shop yet, but we soon will.

The MINI’s are not too dissimilar from BTCC cars in terms of raw pace, and you have demonstrated that you’re very quick in the Coopers already. Are you aiming highly for your inaugural season? 

JG: When I jumped into the Focus RS I was pleasantly surprised at how similar it felt to the MINI JCW I campaigned in 2019. I therefore hope to adapt to the Audi very quickly and hit the ground running. Let there be no doubt that I am aiming to win races this year! The Jack Sears trophy and Independent titles must be the target, but I know there is a lot of hard work required to get there!

“Let there be no doubt that I am aiming to win races this year!”

Which circuit are you most looking forward to racing at in the calendar?

JG: I always enjoy Oulton Park. The undulations and layout just make it very interesting. Particularly when you are pushing hard. That said I like the variety we have in the championship. Some tracks I haven’t been to for a very long time. For example, I haven’t been the Thruxton since I won there in British GT in 2008! It’s scary to think that was 12 years ago now.

I am also looking forward to racing at Croft again given that I used to consider Sunny In/Out my favourite corners in the UK. Again, I haven’t been there for 5 years.

Motorsport Radio wishes James Gornall and Trade Price Cars the best of luck for 2020.