Focus Cup 2025: Round 1 at Donington Park

The 2025 Focus Cup season kicks off this weekend at Donington Park, with drivers and teams back in the paddock and ready for a full season of close racing. Today (Friday) is dedicated to testing, giving everyone a chance to shake off the winter dust and get the cars dialled in before qualifying and race day tomorrow.

Simon Langford is back on the grid in his #474 Ford Focus, working closely with his team to make sure everything is set up right for the weekend ahead. The car is already showing good pace during today’s sessions, and the atmosphere in the garage is calm but focused.

🗨️ “The car feels good through the fast sections, especially Craner,” says Langford. “We’re making a few tweaks to the rear just to give it a bit more rotation, but overall, it’s a strong start to the weekend.”

With a full grid expected this season, the competition is looking sharp from the outset. Every session matters, and Langford and his team are taking a methodical approach — using the test day to fine-tune things like tyre pressures, brake balance, and suspension settings.

🗨️ “We’re trying a few different setups and getting feedback each session. The goal is to be confident in the car by the time we hit qualifying tomorrow morning.”

Donington Park offers a good mix of fast corners and technical sections, making it a solid test for drivers and a great place to start the season. Saturday’s schedule includes qualifying in the morning and two races in the afternoon — a demanding day, especially this early in the season.

🗨️ “It’s just good to be back racing,” Langford adds. “Donington’s always a great circuit, and I’m looking forward to seeing what we can do once we go wheel-to-wheel.”