The Focus Cup 2026 headed to Croft Circuit for Round 5, delivering another action-packed weekend of close racing on 22–23 August. For Direnza driver Ian Mitchell #81, the meeting proved particularly successful, highlighted by an outright race victory and another podium finish.
Croft’s combination of fast sections, technical corners and hard braking zones provided a demanding test for the Focus Cup field, with incredibly close margins separating the leading drivers.
Follow Ian Mitchell’s 2026 Focus Cup campaign with Direnza and explore our range of performance car parts developed for drivers who demand more from their vehicles.
Ian Mitchell Takes Victory at Croft
Ian Mitchell started the Croft weekend in impressive form, taking 1st place in Race 1.
Driving the #81 Focus, Ian completed eight laps with a total race time of 16:09.361, recording a fastest lap of 1:34.720 along the way.
It was far from a comfortable victory. Lewis Clark crossed the line just 0.411 seconds behind, demonstrating how competitive the Focus Cup grid has become during the 2026 season.
Holding his position under that level of pressure made the Race 1 result an excellent start to Round 5 for Ian and the Direnza-supported #81 car.
Another Focus Cup Podium in Race 2
Following his Race 1 victory, Ian faced a different challenge in Race 2 thanks to the championship’s reverse 1–6 format.
Despite the changed starting order, Ian fought his way through to secure 3rd place, completing ten laps in 16:06.475.
His fastest lap was an impressive 1:34.634, slightly quicker than his best lap from Race 1. Ian finished just 1.267 seconds behind second-placed Simon Walton, with Jonathan Baker taking the race victory.
Another podium meant Ian had followed his Croft win with a strong result in the very next race.
Close Racing at Croft Circuit
Croft is a circuit that rewards consistency, confidence and precise car control. Its mixture of high-speed sections and technical corners creates plenty of opportunities for close racing, but mistakes can quickly cost valuable positions.
Ian’s performances demonstrated the importance of maintaining pace throughout an entire race. With less than half a second deciding Race 1, every braking point, corner exit and overtaking opportunity mattered.
That competitive environment is exactly what makes the Focus Cup Championship such an exciting one-make series to follow.
Direnza and the Focus Cup
Motorsport provides the ultimate environment for putting drivers, cars and components to the test. Direnza is proud to be associated with the Focus Cup and to support Ian Mitchell #81 throughout his 2026 campaign.
Our passion for performance extends beyond the circuit. We offer a growing selection of performance car parts for enthusiasts looking to upgrade their own vehicles, from exhaust and induction components to cooling, suspension and handling upgrades.
You can also discover the latest products and upgrades available through the Direnza online store.
On to the Next Round
Round 5 at Croft produced another memorable weekend for Ian Mitchell, with a Race 1 victory followed by a third-place finish in Race 2 providing two standout results.
As the 2026 Focus Cup season continues, attention now turns to the next meeting and another opportunity for the #81 car to fight at the front of the field.
Keep up with Ian Mitchell and Direnza throughout the Focus Cup 2026 season, and explore our range of Ford parts to find upgrades for your own car.