Hopkinson (Optimum): “We’re Going To Donington To Win Silver, And Maybe More”

Hopkinson Aims for GT4 Silver Cup Title at Donington Decider

Luca Hopkinson of Optimum Motorsport is set to compete for the GT4 Silver Cup title this weekend during the British GT finale at Donington Park. Following a significant victory in the last race at Brands Hatch alongside teammate Harry George in the #17 McLaren Artura GT4, the duo leads the Silver Cup standings with 181 points—11 points ahead of Century Motorsport’s Chris Salkeld and Branden Templeton in the #14 BMW M4 GT4.

In a brief statement, Hopkinson expressed confidence about their race strategy: “We’re going in with the mindset that we’re winning Silver. Technically, we can still win the overall championship if the #90 (Optimum McLaren) and #71 (Century BMW) don’t finish, but our focus is on winning the race.”

This decision comes after a challenging season opener at Donington in April, where mechanical issues prevented them from finishing. Hopkinson now approaches the circuit with renewed confidence, having tested successfully there recently.

“We were probably the quickest GT4 car during testing,” Hopkinson noted. “That’s given us confidence for the weekend, so we’re not looking back too much on Round 1.”

The Silver Cup features all-Silver-rated drivers, showcasing some of the fastest young talents. Hopkinson, 19, has noted the growth he experienced this season compared to his debut year with RAM Racing. “It’s been a big year of learning,” he stated. “I’ve developed not just as a driver but also in my approach to racing.”

In comparison to last year, Hopkinson highlights the advantages of the McLaren’s mid-mounted engine, which allows for better balance and speed management compared to the front-mounted engine of the Mercedes-AMG GT4. His recent performance history, including a second-place finish at Oulton Park and third at Snetterton, underscores a clearer trajectory of success.

Despite a reduction in the GT4 grid from 17 to 12 cars this season, Hopkinson insists the competition remains fierce. “You’ve still got fast, proven drivers,” he asserted, naming competitors like Seb Morris and Charlie Robertson as formidable rivals.

Optimum Motorsport also holds a 33.5-point lead in the GT4 Teams’ Championship, with a success penalty of 20 seconds to serve during the pit stop. Nevertheless, Hopkinson remains resolute in his goal: “I’m heading there to win Silver—and maybe more.”

Key Data:

Points Standings: Hopkinson and George lead with 181 points; Century Motorsport follows with 170 points.
Previous Results: Brands Hatch victory marked their first of the season; notable prior finishes include second and third place at Oulton Park and Snetterton, respectively.
Championship Context: Full-season GT4 competitors have decreased from 17 to 12 cars, yet the competitive level remains consistent.