Photo: TCR Media

Gianni Morbidelli says TCR format is perfect for drivers like him

WestCoast Racing driver Gianni Morbidelli has hailed the burgeoning TCR format for professional level drivers in his situation, with manageable costs and hundreds of races across the world accessible.

Morbidelli had great touring car success in the last decade in the Italian-based Superstars series with BMW and Audi, where he was a four-time champion, before joining the WTCC for one season in 2014, winning a race and a pole position in the Münnich Motorsport Chevrolet.

From 2015, Morbidelli switched to TCR with WestCoast Racing, scoring 12 podiums in the last two years and four race victories, established as a front-runner for the title in both seasons with Honda, but now has joined the team as they’ve made the switch to Volkswagen for this year.

“The philosophy is perfect for me, as, together with its various national offshoots, the series offers more than 100 races around the world,” said Morbidelli.

“Furthermore, the costs are manageable, the cars look great, and they are relatively evenly matched, thanks to the Balance of Performance. And, last but not least, the racing is of a very high standard. We have a lot of exciting battles out on the track.”

The 49-year-old is hopeful of challenging for the title again this year, despite moderate results in Georgia, with his Swedish team getting to grips with the car.

“Although we only had a few days of testing before the start of the season, I am very confident that we can challenge for the title,” said Morbidelli.

“The Golf is the champion car from last year, and we made some valuable findings regarding the set-up after the opening race in Georgia. I hope we can be in contention here in Bahrain.”