“A huge honour, I’m extremely proud’ was how MB Motorsport’s Jake Hill described being selected for the second consecutive year, for the British Racing Driver’s Club (BRDC) ‘Superstars’ programme, which recognises the Elite talent from a broad spectrum of National and International motorsport.

One of only a dozen young drivers from the UK & Commonwealth selected, 27 year-old Hill from Kent has been chosen as a result of a strong 2020 campaign, taking an Independent Driver’s Win, 6 overall podiums and fought back to finish a career-best 7th in BTCC, despite engine woes and punctures early in the year.

“The last couple of seasons have enabled me to show what I can do in BTCC; My first overall win, 9 Podiums, three Independant Wins and top-ten in qualifying at every race last year. Thanks to the faith Shaun (Hollamby) and Mark (Blundell) have shown, and now with the combination of Motorbase Performance and the Ford Focus ST  I feel I have my best chance yet of success. So for the BRDC to consider me worthy of joining some incredible drivers in this programme means a huge amount.

The programme gives young drivers support in several key areas;  fitness, PR, social media, marketing, maximising performance and more, with the programme’s director, Andy Meyrick, becoming a mentor to all of those involved.

“Jake is a great example of a driver who has had to work incredibly hard off track to enable him to be able to show his talents on track. He has been quick in everything he’s raced in, which is demonstrated by his versatility by not only winning in BTCC, but also in a Nissan Skyline at Goodwood, and at the Silverstone Classic and other Historic events. That shows real adaptability, plus real determination to work at getting these opportunities, and these are qualities we really appreciate.

Hill will once again proudly display the unique ‘Superstars’ logo on his cars, race suit and helmet, and is looking forward to joining the rest of the drivers on several events throughout the year.

“Of course in 2020 we had loads of cool things planned that had to be postponed, so this year hopefully we will be able to work together, and represent the programme as a team. I am really looking forward to working with Andy (Meyrick) again – he’s been fantastically supportive – and getting to know everyone else.

Hill begins testing in his MB Motorsport Ford Focus ST soon, and is confident of a strong showing in 2021.

“2019 was great, last year stronger still, and the package we have is incredible, so I cannot wait to get started!

Rounds 1,2 & 3 of the 2021 Kwik Fit British Touring Car Championship takes place at Thruxton on 8/9th May.

Picture supplied by Jakob Ebrey Photography.