Rydell on his Super Touring return

Former British Touring Car star Rickard Rydell raced his 1998 title-winning Volvo S40 in the brace of Super Touring Car Trophy races at the Silverstone Classic last weekend.

The 50-year-old Swede qualified on pole in the car now owned by Jason Minshaw. Rydell even used his original steering wheel, which was brought by his former chief engineer Chris Ambrose.

Despite brief spells in the lead, he was beaten into second in both encounters by the Honda Accord of regular series winner James Dodd.

What was it like to be back?

It was so fun, to be thinking about it all again. It’s a good thing I didn’t win otherwise I’d be thinking I’m still good and would need to come back. I was getting help from my old engineer Graham Taylor so it’s like being back in it again. I’ve enjoyed the weekend very much. I really have to say thanks to Jason Minshaw and the team.

What are the Super Tourers like to drive? The cars are more tricky than the current World Touring Cars so it takes a bit of time. But I feel at home in the car and it doesn’t feel like 20 years. The Volvo was quicker in the high-speed corners and the Honda was quicker in the slow corners and down the straights. The Honda was always quick and we don’t have as much power as we did then.

What was it like racing James Dodd?

He’s a very good driver, he’s doing everything right. He did a very good job. If he goes into the BTCC, which I think he should, he shouldn’t let me pass at Club on the inside! But it was great to race cleanly.