Collard Expresses Deep Disappointment After Losing British GT Title
Rob Collard's hopes for a third British GT championship evaporated in a moment of misfortune during the 2026 Brands Hatch finale. His late-race spin, alongside co-driver Hugo Cook, paved the way for an unexpected title victory by rivals Simon Orange and Marcus Clutton. Despite the personal disappointment, Collard's Barwell team still celebrated significant achievements, showcasing a season of mixed emotions and fierce competition.
Heartbreak at Brands Hatch: Collard's Title Dream Derailed
The dramatic conclusion to the 2026 British GT season unfolded on September 28, 2026, at the iconic Brands Hatch circuit. Rob Collard, piloting the Barwell Lamborghini alongside Hugo Cook, entered the final round as the clear favorites, holding a commanding 15.5-point lead over their closest competitors, Alex Martin and Jarrod Waberski, also in a Barwell Huracan. However, the unpredictability of motorsport once again demonstrated its power.
Fifty-four minutes into the intense two-hour race, a pivotal moment struck. Collard, who had skillfully taken the lead from pole-sitter Kevin Tse of 2 Seas Mercedes on the very first lap and was meticulously building a gap, experienced a critical spin at Sheene Curve. This sudden turn of events sent his car to the rear of the field, instantly crushing his and Cook's aspirations for the championship title.
The incident opened the door for Simon Orange and Marcus Clutton of Orange Racing McLaren. Arriving in Kent with a substantial 21.5-point deficit, their victory in the race, coupled with Collard's misfortune and Martin/Waberski finishing fourth, secured them their maiden overall British GT championship – a remarkable upset that saw them clinch the title without having led the standings until the final moments of the season. Collard, a seasoned driver who had been on the verge of claiming his third title, expressed profound disappointment, citing potential car issues with the ABS system as a contributing factor to the spin. Despite the personal setback, the Barwell team achieved the GT3 teams' title, while Collard earned Masters honors and Jarrod Waberski secured the Silver-Am championship and a fully-funded seat at the 2027 Spa 24 Hours, highlighting the team's overall strong performance throughout the year.
This event serves as a poignant reminder of the fine line between triumph and despair in competitive racing. It underscores the immense pressure faced by athletes at the pinnacle of their sport and the cruel nature of fate that can turn a season's hard work on its head in an instant. While Collard's devastation is palpable, the team's ability to secure other significant victories demonstrates their resilience and collective strength, offering a valuable lesson in navigating both success and unexpected challenges.