The 2025–26 SS Cup championship enters its final round at Highlands Motorsport Park, with the title still undecided despite the points table. A full field will contest four races during the Highlands Festival of Speed, with the SS Cup format set to shape the championship outcome.
McLean leads, but the pressure remains
Dave McLean (158) leads with 1130 points, trailed by Jason Kelly (29) on 916 and Matt Ryan (65) on 909.
Though the points gap is substantial, reverse grid racing and strategy keep the title open. A strong weekend from challengers, or setbacks for McLean, could quickly close the gap.
Class battles set to shape the outcome
In Class A, McLean leads, but Peter Sutherland (98), Lincoln Brunton (97), and Warren Walker (183) are separated by a few points. Jacob Cunniffe (137) and Peter Swaney (751) could influence class and overall results.
Class B promises a standout contest. Kelly leads, but Carmen Liemburg (350) and Brad Rae (662) remain close. Handicap races will be pivotal, with Class B runners central to race outcomes.
In Class C, Mike McCarthy (247) and Ben van Heeswyck (42) are deadlocked, setting up a head-to-head clash. Allan Garnett (53) and Glen Wendelborn (510) remain poised to exploit any errors.
Weather and schedule could prove decisive
The schedule adds to the difficulty, with SS Cup sessions running on varied track conditions all weekend.
Friday’s qualifying session takes place late in the day, when track temperatures are expected to be at their highest, increasing the likelihood of drivers pushing into breakout territory as grip levels peak.
Racing starts Saturday with Race 1 late morning, then the afternoon’s first reverse-grid handicap, where tyre wear, traffic, and wind are key factors.
Sunday follows a similar pattern, with cool early conditions for Race 3, then a faster track and rising pressure in the afternoon could create decisive moments in the championship fight.
With warm days, cool mornings, and possible wind or showers, drivers must adapt quickly to changing grip in every session.
The final word
The numbers favour McLean, but the SS Cup has shown all season that nothing is certain. With one round and four races left, the championship will depend on both speed and execution. At Highlands, every possibility is on the table. Get ready for the unexpected. Qualifying kicks off 4.25 pm on Friday.
Header Image: Euan Cameron
