Gilles Magnus: “Victory is a big relief”

Comtoyou Racing’s Gilles Magnus claimed his first ever WTCR victory in Sunday’s Race 1 at the Hungaroring, with the Belgian acknowledging that a weight has been lifted off his shoulders with this result.

Magnus started with his Audi RS 3 LMS from the reverse grid pole position, taking the lead at the start, with team-mate Frédéric Vervisch fending off Cyan Racing’s Yann Ehrlacher (Lynk & Co. 03 TCR) and Zengo Motorsport’s Mikel Azcona (Cupra Leon Competción).

“When I knew I was starting on pole I had a good feeling because this is a track where you need downforce and starting in front is a big advantage for sure,” said Magnus after the race.

“But you have still got to nail the start because it’s a long way to the first corner, so for me that was the crucial moment.

“I was lucky to have Fred just behind me, he defended for me very well so I have to thank him for that, good team work,” added the Belgian.

“I’ really so happy because finally, we deserved this for a long time. I’ve been second a few times, so I’m really happy with this win.”

The result allowed Magnus to climb up to third place in the drivers’ standings, 13 points behind Ehrlacher.