Josh Files extends points lead after perfect weekend at Red Bull Ring
Target Competition’s Josh Files scored a double victory in the second round of TCR Germany at Red Bull Ring this weekend, extending his lead to 152 points, 55 over his closest rival, Audi driver Sheldon van der Linde.
The Brit acknowledged his team after another dominant race with his Honda Civic TCR: “The car was once again outstanding. I had some problems with the safety car but, in the end, everything was good,” said the standings leader. “I know Oschersleben quite well, so we will not test before we race there again.”
Mortiz Oestreich, also at the wheel of a Honda Civic TCR, claimed second place after overtaking Sandro Kaibach’s and Robin Brezina’s Audis at the start, but couldn’t follow Files: “I did not like Josh Files’ speed, he was just too fast this weekend, but look, the season is still long, there can be a lot going on and a lot can happen. My speed was good all weekend.”
SEAT driver Mike Halder was again on the podium for the second time this weekend, having recovered from fifth in the initial stages of the race and overtaking Kaibach and Kris Richard (Honda) to reach third position. The German driver was ecstatic with his result: “I honestly did not have the chance to be on the podium here twice in Spielberg at the beginning of the weekend, so this result is outstanding, almost like a victory. On this track, we just have to fight with the top speed. Thanks to the team, I had a great setup, the car was perfect and we can be more than satisfied.”
Target Competition UK-SUI, who manages the Hondas of Josh Files and Kris Richard, leads the teams’ standings with 152 points, 37 ahead of Honda Team ADAC Sachen, responsible for Steve Kirsch’s and Moritz Oestreich’s Civics.
Despite having a difficult weekend, Luca Engstler (Volkswagen) leads the rookie class with 24 points, now tied with Audi driver Simon Reicher.
