Yvan Muller delighted after ‘big lap’ earns pole

Yvan Muller admitted he was delighted to score pole in Russia after a ‘big lap’ secured top spot in qualifying at the Sochi Autodrom.

The French veteran had topped the times in the first stage of qualifying ahead of the Cupra of Mikel Azcona but it looked like he might miss out on the fight for pole in Q2 when he was forced to pit for a change of tyres.

Having made it through on his one quick run, Muller then romped to pole by more than three tenths of a second to earn his place at the head of the field, scoring vital points for Cyan Racing Lynk & Co in the process as it looks to wrap up the teams’ championship.

“That was a big lap and it was an amazing qualifying session,” he said. “We were quick in Q1 but then in Q2, I had to come back in to the pits to change tyres and I just managed to get into the top five.

“We made a small set-up change ahead of Q3 which helped me a lot as I was doubting if we could go for pole, but I made no mistake and got the lap in.

“The main goal is to win the teams’ title first so we have taken good points for that and then I hope we can confirm the drivers’ title for Yann as well. If I can get into the top three then it would be a nice thing to do personally.”

Muller now holds fourth in the standings having moved ahead of Santiago Urrutia following qualifying.