Pepe Oriola philosophical about Shanghai retirement

Pepe Oriola retired from the first TCR International Series race at Shanghai, China. The Spaniard had had a good start, progressing up to second before making contact with René Munnich, which damaged the front of his SEAT León Racer and forced him to retire.

After two podiums scored in Malaysia, the Craft-Bamboo Lukoil driver says he is still happy with the pace he has shown so far in China:”This is what races are like,” said Oriola. “I am happy because I had a great start and I showed I could get near the Hondas, it’s a shame my race didn’t last too long.”

The Spaniard is particularly happy with his pace in qualifying:”This morning I was the fastest León driver on track and I am satisfied because I proved I am competitive. I now have to think about tomorrow and try to score a good result.”

The reversed grid means Oriola will start ahead of the all-conquering Honda Civic TCRs, on a track which suits the WestCoast Racing cars:”It will be interesting to have the Hondas behind and I will try to take advantage of it, although Shanghai is an ideal track for them.”

Oriola is now third in the championship, tied on points with WestCoast’s Kevin Gleason, 20 points behind Gianni Morbidelli, the new leader.