Rowan Campbell-Pilling secures maiden British F4 victory at Knockhill, representing Sheffield on the top step of the podium

Photography by Jakob Ebrey

Rowan Campbell-Pilling secures maiden British F4 victory at Knockhill, representing Sheffield on the top step of the podium.

Going into the final race of the weekend in Scotland, Campbell-Pilling had shown signs that it was his time to take P1.

In Race 1, having started in pole position, the 18-year-old was denied the victory following a time penalty but was determined to bounce back.

With Sunday’s races broadcast live on ITV4 and ITVX, I sat down to watch the final race of Round Seven in this year’s Championship.

Campbell-Pilling’s car, recognisable with his number 42, lined up in P2 on the starting grid just behind Thomas Bearman (Hitech TGR).

Anticipation was building and as the lights went off, the JHR Developments driver reacted quickly and overtook the pole sitter in a dramatic opening to proceedings.

The challenge now? To stay in front for the remainder of the 25-minute feature race.

Sheffield’s own Campbell-Pilling had to battle through two safety cars, but a strong defence and resilient drive saw him pass the chequered flag victorious.

There were emotional scenes as he stepped out of his car, pointing up to the sky before embracing and celebrating with his team.

Having watched and supported Rowan’s journey from his first single seater race last season in Donington, it was truly incredible to see him achieve what we have spoken about in our interviews over the past two years.

Following the initial celebrations in parc ferme, it was time for Campbell-Pilling to stand atop the podium for the first time in British F4.

As he took his place on the top step, I saw the ‘Made in Sheffield’ trademark written on his racing suit, an honour we reported on back in April as it was announced he was the first individual to receive the prestigious trademark.

In that same interview just four months ago, I remember Rowan said: “I’m Sheffield through and through, born and bred, I love flying the flag for this city.”

And there he was stood on the top step with the first place trophy in his hands, representing our city at the highest point of the British F4 world.