Thompson: “I had few hopes to win”

James Thompson snatched the European Touring Car Cup title from Michel Nykjaer. But the Brit did not expect to win after the qualifying.
“After qualifying eighth I had few hopes to win today. Being sixth on the grid with a SEAT turbodiesel far ahead was not encouraging,” said Thompson.

“I thought that I could maybe finish in the top three of the first race and then try everything in the second,” said Thompson.

The strategy worked and Thompson managed to win the second race, securing the title on the same points as Franz Engstler.

“Although a lot of credit for this goes to my engineer who led me towards the right tyre choice. I usually go for the wrong one,” said Thompson.

Thompson was awarded the title ahead of Engstler thanks to his win in race two. Engstler finished second in both races, but did not score a win.

“I also have to thank the team, because they have done an amazing job. The car was perfect in both races. Quick and consistent,” said Thompson.