James Thompson satisfied with early pace in China

LADA Sport Lukoil’s James Thompson was fifth fastest in the 30 minute test session at Shanghai. The two-time BTCC champion is competing at the circuit for the first time, as is his Russian team, as has been the case throughout much of the 2013 season.

Thompson was just over six-tenths of a second down on pace setter Yvan Muller’s time, fifth fastest overall and faster than the best placed cars from Honda, Volvo and SEAT. Meanwhile, Thompson’s Russian team-mate Mikhail Kozlovskiy, was four seconds down on his first appearance at the circuit in 23rd position.

“This is my first time here and it’s also going to be the very first race in China for the whole team,” said Thompson.

“I actually expected the circuit to be faster from what I was able to see and read about it before coming here. But it certainly isn’t fast everywhere; in the corners you use only second or third gear.

“Having said that, the top speeds on the straight are really quick and it’s also a hard circuit on tyres. We’ve been fifth-quickest so far and I’m happy with that. We tried out a few things back at Magny-Cours with the front suspension and I think that’s made a difference. We can definitely maximize more grip now.”