Jack Goff to spearhead new Cupra programme

Team HARD has confirmed that Jack Goff will lead its new Cupra programme in the 2021 British Touring Car Championship after signing an extended two-year deal with Tony Gilham’s outfit.

Goff, who made his series debut with Team HARD back in 2013, rejoined the Kent squad last year and secured its first win in a dramatic wet race at Silverstone, but endured a tough 2020 campaign – scoring points on only four occasions and ending the year down in 23rd in the standings.

Eager to try and return to form in 2021, Goff is the first driver to be confirmed by Team HARD in one of the new Cupras, which the team announced it would be running back in September – with work on the first cars already well underway.
 
“I’m delighted to be remaining with Team HARD Racing for another two seasons,” Goff said. “The previous seasons have been tricky on track but an absolute delight off it. I can’t fault the team’s commitment to winning and family ethics; for me, that is something really important. There is always a great vibe around the place which lifts your confidence as a driver. 
 
“Now, we’re well underway with the build of the brand new Cupra Leons and I’m super excited to be playing a major part in the car’s development. If they go as well as they look then we will be contenders for sure. 
 
“After the nail-biting scenario I found myself in on the eve of the 2019 campaign, with it looking likely I’d miss the season, I can’t thank Tony [Gilham], the team and of course my sponsors enough for this opportunity to finalise a two-year deal as we race into the hybrid era.

“Securing a drive always takes a lot of time and planning so to have this sorted means I can focus on getting myself and the team back to winning ways over the next two seasons.”
 
Gilham himself was delighted to confirm that Goff would remain with the team for another season and said the 29-year-old was the ideal person to help develop the new Cupra.
 
“Jack is back for years four and five with the team, having made his debut with us back in 2013,” he said. “With new machinery for 2021 it was vital that we secured a driver who can extract the maximum from our new Cupra, and what better than to remain with one of the highest-rated drivers on the grid. 
 
“A new car for next year, with an extensive test programme, will help move us forward on outright pace. Jack’s qualifying record is unquestionable and he’s the right man to ensure that we get our new car as far up the grid as possible to get to the front of the pack.
 
“During this current global situation, working with partners away from the track is more important than ever and Jack is a great ambassador for all concerned. This news has delighted our current partners as we start to gear up for the 2021 BTCC season.”