Dusan Borkovic: “We need to maximise Race 2 for championship challenge”

Dusan Borkovic believes a strong result in tomorrow’s second TCR Europe series race at the Hungaroring is key to remaining in touch with championship leader Mikel Azcona ahead of the next round at Assen.

The Target Competition driver took victory in the opening race of the weekend to move to within one point of Azcona, who missed out on victory following two separate incidents.

Azcona had disputed the lead with Josh Files before contact sent the Spaniard into a half-spin. The PCR Sport Cupra was then collected by Borkovic’s team-mate Reece Barr late in the race and eventually finished fourth.

With the series visiting two high-speed circuits at Assen and Monza, Borkovic knows he has to make the most of the Hyundai i30 N TCR advantage.

“I’m so happy with the win today,” Borkovic told TouringCarTimes.

“At the halfway point in the season, I am just one behind Azcona, it’s great but I know the next tracks will not be easy. Assen and Monza are both very fast and they will not suit us.”

Borkovic admitted to thinking more about the championship without risking too much, a tactic the Serbian has had to adapt to.

“I just decided to drive for the championship, I think I drove really smart today,” Borkovic said.

“I’m not the weak one but I’m also not driving over the limits. I knew the Hungaroring is good for me and the Hyundai and it was important to take as many points as possible. Azcona tried to drive for the win and it didn’t work out. It is important for me to have a good result tomorrow.”

Borkovic will start the second race from seventh on the grid, while Race 1 pole-sitter Azcona starts 10th.