Winter Test: Silverstone
The 2025 pre-season officially got underway for Toby Trice as he completed his first winter test at Silverstone in preparation for the upcoming Porsche Sprint Challenge GB season. The day provided an opportunity to shake off the winter break, refine car setup, and push towards the championship campaign ahead.
“It felt great to be back in the car for the first time in 2025,” said Trice. “An opportunity to blow the cobwebs off and get back into the swing of things. After some time away, you forget just how quick this Porsche Cayman is. I love the noise and the drama of dropping the pit limiter—it’s a feeling I’ve missed!”
With a winter break behind him, Trice and Clean Racing arrived at Silverstone with a clear strategy. The goal was to ease back into the car while also experimenting with setup changes that had been developed during off-season analysis.
“The main goal for this test was mostly to get back up to speed,” Trice explained. “However, over the winter, the team and I have done some homework on our data and identified the direction we want to take the setup. Having Peter Sieber join us this season has been a game-changer, and right from the start, we’ve made improvements.”
Although the cold and slightly green track conditions were far from ideal, the team made significant strides throughout the day.
“The car felt better after our initial shake-down session. We’re progressing the setup towards something that better suits both the car and my driving style. Last year, the car was solid, but this test was about building from where we left off.”
One of the biggest benefits of pre-season testing is the freedom to explore different setup options—a luxury not always available during competitive race weekends.
“We experimented quite a bit,” Trice said. “Pre-season testing allows us to take some risks and try things we might not during a race weekend. It’s been great to make changes and really understand how they affect the car’s characteristics.”
⸻
Beyond car setup, the test also provided Trice with a chance to refine his own driving performance.
“I knew I had to build on where I left off last year. Personal development is key for me, and I’ve come into this test with a clear head—which is exactly what I needed. I feel much more relaxed in the car, and that’s making a big difference.”
The results spoke for themselves, with Trice matching his personal best lap time despite using worn tyres and suboptimal conditions.
“My lap times on paper improved. Using worn tyres in less-than-ideal conditions, I still matched my best time on fresh tyres from last season. That’s huge progress in my eyes.”
With no major issues and a productive collaboration with the team, the test was a resounding success.
“The team did a fantastic job as always. Everything ran efficiently, and the positive feedback between us really helped build on our momentum.”
Trice also had his first opportunity to work with engineer Peter Sieber, whose experience in high-level motorsport, including F1 and Porsche racing, has already made an impact.
“Peter is an incredibly knowledgeable and experienced engineer. It’s been great working with him for the first time, and I can already see how his input is helping us move forward.”
⸻
With Silverstone complete, Trice and the team now turn their focus to the next pre-season test at Brands Hatch.
“The next test is at Brands Hatch—a completely different type of circuit where we’ll try out some new things. I’m really excited to get back to it.”
Heading into the season, Trice feels more confident than ever.
“The biggest takeaway from this test was confidence. I’ve come into this season with a fresh start and an opportunity to really attack this championship. Having the luxury of pre-season testing has given me the push to move forward, try things out, and be more prepared than ever.”
With momentum building, Trice’s 2025 campaign is shaping up to be his strongest yet.
“A huge thanks to the team, our partners, and the incredible support from everyone. I’m so determined to repay all of this backing with trophies, celebrations, and ultimately that championship title!”
Images courtesy of: SammJoey Photography
