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After announcing our sponsorship of Historic Sports Car Club drivers Max Bartell and partner Ben Mitchell, we caught up with Max to find out how he got into racing and his aspirations for the season and his career ahead!  

What got you into racing?

I used to enjoy go-karting with friends so had a small taster from that, but think my real drive was from seeing my Dad race. I’d cheer him on at various UK meets and tracks as he raced in his historic race car and when I was a little older, I joined him in the paddock. There I spent time with the team, seeing the work they undertake and began to learn what goes into becoming a historic race driver.

One day at Brands Hatch my Dad said ‘Give it a go’ and I jumped at the opportunity! The thrill of driving the car was immense and I was instantly hooked.

What drew you to classic car racing in particular?

For me, this type of racing is the most competitive you can experience, which is very important as I grow and develop in my racing career.  

The social side of this type of racing is such a fantastic thing to be a part of. One weekend could see up to 60 of us competing against each other, vying for podium positions, but before and after the racing we all spend time together and there is a great community spirit.  

Any racing role models?

Kimi Raikonnen is certainly someone I look up to, my racing helmet is even coloured and styled in a similar way to his. He has a cool persona and is very well respected within the F1 paddocks, hopefully I can become the ‘Iceman’ like Kimi in the Historic Racing world!  

Aspirations for the year ahead and into the future?

We’ve joined the season right in the middle so the championship may be out of reach this year. We have a great car though and we’re certainly aiming for as many top three finishes as possible.

Going forward I feel we have the right team in place to aim for the championship title, certainly within the F3 category next season. Then possibly move into a more modern race series at some point? Let’s not get ahead of ourselves just yet though!

How do you approach a race weekend?

Preparation usually begins a couple of weeks in advance. We look over the car, ensure all parts are good and in working order and source fuel and tyres too.

We’ll then load the car and travel to the track (the road trips are great fun). When we get there it’s testing and more testing, ensuring our car is in good form and checking gear ratios, tyre set ups etc. We always want to head out knowing we have done all we can to help this car cross the line first.

Finally, what is your favourite UK Track?

Where it all began, Brands Hatch GP Circuit. Thank You, Dad.

You can follow Max and Ben’s progress on our website and social media channels, stay tuned!