Round 7 – Knockhill – Preview
This coming weekend (10-11 August) Hitech head north of the border, as the popular Knockhill circuit is the destination for the latest three rounds of the 2024 British Formula 4 Championship.
Last time out at Zandvoort, Deagen Fairclough achieved a near-perfect weekend as the championship leader scored two wins from two pole positions – leading every lap. In the reverse grid race he climbed from 12th on the grid to achieve another podium finish. Deagen left the Netherlands to extend his points lead to 66 after six of the nine events.
Located seven miles from the town of Dunfermline, the track was first opened in 1974, having been laid out on farmland close to Knockhill. The high altitude of the venue, surrounded by rugged terrain, can often leave the circuit open to the elements. At just 1.27 miles in length, the Fife track is notorious for its narrow layout, with the crests and dips a challenge for both engineers to achieve the right setup, and for the drivers to tame its undulating nature.
Even the start/finish straight is positioned on a hill and the first sector on the lap is characterised by a quick, swooping switchback, formerly known as Duffus Dip that invites confident drivers to make a lunge on a rival at the inside of the next right-hander: McIntyre. An ultra-fast chicane with a blind exit leads onto the Brabham Straight and there are just two more corners, before the commencement of another lap.
“Coming off the back of such a fantastic weekend at Zandvoort, I’m really excited to get back on track at Knockhill,” said Deagen. “It’s a challenging circuit with its tight layout and unpredictable weather, but I’m confident in our preparation and the car setup Hitech will provide. Every race is a new opportunity to push the limits and secure crucial points for the championship. Also the atmosphere at Knockhill is always electric and I can’t wait to race in front of the Scottish fans.”
As the British F4 Championship heads to Scotland, fourth-placed Reza Seewooruthun is looking forward to achieving another strong weekend and to help Hitech extend their 24.5 points lead in the Teams Championship, he said: “Knockhill is one of those tracks where anything can happen, and I’m looking forward to the challenge. The narrow course and elevation changes make it a real test for the drivers, but that’s what makes it so exciting.
“We’ve been working hard on the simulator and with the engineers to fine-tune our approach and I believe we can deliver strong results,” added Reza. “It’s crucial for us to maximise our points haul this weekend to strengthen our position in the Teams’ Championship.”
