Neal and Kristensen look for fresh start

Both cars ended up in the Stirlings barriers after Neal tried to pass the Danish newcomer in the Feature Race. Neal claimed that Kristensen had made a mistake at the previous corner then closed the door, while the Honda driver maintained that there had never been a gap and that Neal had been trying an impossible move.

The situation was inflamed by comments made by both drivers on live TV after the incident, but Neal says he now regrets this.

'The clash was unfortunate for both of us and I hope the hype surrounding it can be forgotten and we can both prove just how good we are,' Neal said.

'It was a racing accident and I want to dismiss it.'

Kristensen said he didn't expect a similar situation to arise at Donington this weekend.

'This time I am planning to stay out in front, away from any trouble,' he declared.

Neal also made a veiled reference to the fact that contact with Kristensen's team-mate James Thompson had earlier ruined his chances in the Sprint Race.

'If we can get rid of the Honda magnet we had at Brands then we should be able to get some good results,' he joked.