Romford racer Matt Luff admitted he was 'really pleased' to finish as vice champion at the end of the 2024 Audi TT Cup series at Silverstone on Sunday.
The former Gidea Park College and Brentwood School pupil travelled to the home of British motorsport for the final three races of the campaign with an outside chance of claiming the title.
And after enjoying a strong day of testing, the accountant posted the quickest times in qualifying to earn pole position for race one on Saturday.
But despite holding onto his lead in the early stages, he was eventually forced to settle for third place as series leader Bradley Burns took the chequered flag to all but ensure the title.
Luff put that disappointment firmly behind him on Sunday to move up from third on the grid to claim victory in race two, after some thrilling racing with Burns and Sam Heading.
And although that meant he started race three in 10th place on the reverse grid, the 24-year-old produced more impressive passes to move through the field up to fourth and within sight of another podium.
However, his consistency over the course of the seven rounds was not enough as, after drivers dropped their worst three scores, Luff was left as runner-up behind Burns, who had suffered a particularly bad day in round three at Oulton.
“This weekend was always going to be an uphill battle as we entered the finale in second place in the championship although still in striking distance of claiming the title," said a realistic Luff, who finished with three race wins, two second places and six third places.
"We gave it everything and just fell short. Pole, a win, a podium, a fourth-place finish and a fastest lap wasn’t quite enough to get the job done, however I’m really pleased with my performance not just this weekend, but overall throughout the season.
"We’ve had highs, lows, and everything inbetween but the results speak for themselves and I’m really pleased to end the season as 2024 vice-champion in the Audi TTCR’s inaugural year.
"Huge thanks to all my sponsors and supporters that make this all possible. I’m sure I’ll be back next year and gunning for the top spot in whatever championship we find ourselves contesting!"
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