Jessica Bäckman disappointed after being run out of P3 at the start

Jessica Bäckman had a short first race at Oschersleben, after the Target Competition Hyundai driver was pushed wide at Turn 2 by Nelson Panciatici, which saw her race quickly unravel and end in retirement.

The Swede had launched from an effective fourth on the grid to third, passing the M Racing Hyundai of Nelson Panciatici into Turn 1, but the two made light contact at the exit, with Bäckman spinning wide and falling down the order.

Rejoining in the midfield, she was caught in the melee at Turn 3, and was caught up in contact with the second M Racing Hyundai of Natan Bihel and with DG Sport Peugeot driver Aurélien Comte, which led to all three retiring.

“I had a really good start, and I’ve had a good start for many races now, but then I was pushed off into Turn 2 and then my race was pretty much over,” she said to TouringCarTimes.

“I was happy with qualifying but not the race, but it’s hard also when you can’t do anything about it. I’m comfortable with my race pace, so I have another shot tomorrow as I start from the same position again.”