That Goodwin should be chosen to join Thomas Erdos and Mike Newton in the MG-Lola EX257 AER sports prototype is a logical one. Goodwin enjoys a long-standing association with RML. “I've driven virtually every car that RML has built in the last ten years,” he claims. As well as Vauxhall and Nissan touring cars, rally cars and sportscars, Goodwin was the first person to drive the Saleen S7-R. “We have a very good working relationship,” he says. In addition, he is the only member of the squad to have competitive experience of prototypes. “I raced a Lola in the Sebring 12 Hours in 1999, and as part of my involvement with Nissan I also tested a Nissan-powered Courage on the Bugatti circuit (at Le Mans).”

The team is currently at Pembrey completing a final track test ahead of the trip to France. Goodwin will join the team for the second day of the test. “It will be a good chance for me to develop a feel for the car,” he says. “The aim of the game is for me to get a few laps of acclimatization and a better understanding of what makes it work.