Last weekend saw a very unsavory event at Rockingham during the BTCC Touring Car Event. Jason Plato and Matthew Neal squared up to each other after qualifying when Matt Neal accused Plato of blocking him and preventing him from taking Pole Position. The incident was triggered when the cars returned to the pits and after emerging from his car, Jason gave Matt the finger. There is no doubt that Jason Plato is a very fast accomplished Touring Car driver and he has achieved much, but some of his moves out on the circuit can at best be termed as cynical and unnecesary. It has always been my opinion that you have to give a competitor racing room and not put your car in such a position as to endanger him. Imagine what would have happened to Vettel at Monza on the first lap if Alonso had not given him room to come back on the circuit. They may both have been killed! I am not saying that Jason has endangered peoples lives, but if a guy is good enough to get alongside you in a corner then at least give him the respect he deserves and racing room. Jason should raise himself above all that and set an example to young drivers coming though the ranks. He is now a BRDC Director and giving the finger to a fellow member and competitor is not in keeping with this position.

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