Michelisz keeps independents’ lead but rues costly mistake

Norbert Michelisz leaves Oschersleben with a one point lead in the Yokohama Independents’ Trophy, but is mostly upset with the missed opportunity to take the first race victory for the BMW 320 TC of 2011.

The 26-year-old Hungarian was leading the race ahead of Franz Engstler, before he spun out on lap eight, dropping into the battle between Chevrolet’s Yvan Muller and ROAL Motorsport’s Tom Coronel.

“It hurts a lot because I was just so sure when I was in front that I could make it,” said Michelisz to TouringCarTimes.

“I just hit the inside kerb in corner No.13 too much and the car was just a little bit unstable but I was not expecting it to go sideways, and as I realised that I had to correct it was too late.”

“I’m really sorry as it just could have been a better result.”

Michelisz was then caught up with a battle with Tom Coronel and Yvan Muller, with the Coronel and Michelisz going side by side into the 90 degree Turn 1 at the start of lap 11. With no room for two cars, Michelisz’s BMW ended up out of the race and in the tyre wall at Turn 1.

“I think we have the base to be optimistic, but still we just need to be more consistent and we just need to score points,” said Michelisz.

“I’m still in front, so I think it was not so bad luck for us. To be honest, I’m still more interested in the race victory and that’s what hurts me the most.”

Yokohama Independents’ Trophy standings after Oschersleben