Gianni Morbidelli struggling for grip in Oschersleben

Gianni Morbidelli had a troubled first free practice session in Oschersleben, Germany, as the WestCoast Racing driver struggled to find grip. The Honda Civic TCR has shown this issue ever since testing on Thursday, probably due to the nature of the tarmac on this track.

“We can’t generate temperature in the tyres,” said the Italian to TouringCarTimes. “I believe it is a problem we only have on our car, because the SEATs were quite strong today.”

Morbidelli, who finished 12th this morning, believes the problem comes from the tarmac: “We are working to find a solution, we tried something today which didn’t work. Like I said yesterday to the team, this asphalt is too smooth, and probably a bit old. In Germany they also use a different type of tarmac to make sure water is drained perfectly, but it does seem to create a problem for us.”

While hoping the track stays dry, Morbidelli praised the atmosphere in Germany: “I hope we will not have rain because I would like to try a different solution, and also for the fans to come and join us at the track. Even if it’s only Saturday we have people on the grandstands already, the passion in Germany is always special.”

Morbidelli is fourth in the championship, equal on points with Leopard Racing’s Jean-Karl Vernay and 13 behind championship leader Stefano Comini.