Ryo Michigami proud to be first Japanese driver on WTCC podium

Ryo Michigami became the first Japanese driver to be on the podium of the World Touring Car Championship when he finished third in the opening race at Macau. The Honda driver believes he couldn’t have overtaken second-placed Tom Coronel, as he admits the ROAL Motorsport driver was quicker in the second sector.

“First of all, I made a mistake at the start so I was pretty frustrated but then I had the chance to catch Coronel because I felt confident but it was really tough to overtake him, especially in the mountain section. But I am very happy and satisfied with what I have done for the team.”

Michigami is happy with his progress, as the podium makes up for some difficult times earlier this season.

“At the start of the season there were some tough moments but since the Asian rounds I tried to score more points and I was happy. I was also trying to support Honda and Norbert (Michelisz) for the championship.”