WRX
24 May 2019
Credit: World RX Media
Oliver Bennett says he has “unfinished business” as he returns to Silverstone for his home round of the World Rallycross championship.
Bennett qualified 21st out of 23 at last year’s maiden Silverstone event, but returned later in the year for the British rallycross finale. In the domestic series Bennett dominated qualifying, but suffered a fire in his semi-final which ended his day early.
“I’ve got some unfinished business,” Bennett said. “I came here in the Fiesta and won every qualifying and caught fire in the semis. That was my last time here.”
“We did bring the Mini here for a test but unfortunately we didn’t run that day, so it’ll be good to get back out there. I like the track – it’s short, sharp, and it’s good fun.”
Bennett has shown a marked improvement this year, culminating in a qualifying heat win at Spa-Francorchamps last time out, but qualifying for a semi-final spot remains the aim of the Bristol driver and his Xite Racing team.
“I think the Mini is going to run well there I really like the circuit, its a technical circuit so it plays to the Mini’s characteristics quite well, with it being a short and nimble car, so I think we can really push for the semi-finals,” he said. “I don’t see any reason why this wouldn’t be the weekend we will make it through.”
“Semi-finals are a big target this year,” said Bennett. “Our starts are really good now, [they’re] always consistent, so I think if we can nail the starts and get a good few laps in I think semi-finals are definitely possible this weekend. We’re going to go for it.”
“I think the pace is there now, I think the car is there, and I think I can drive up there with the top guys so it’s just piecing all together now, a bit of luck on our side and we’ll be well away.”
