Brands Hatch: N.Technology race one report

N.TECHNOLOGY ON THE PODIUM AT BRANDS HATCH
Thompson takes the chequered flag in second

N.Technology Alfa Romeo's James Thompson has made up two FIA World Touring Car Championship positions after an accomplished drive saw him finish second in today's first race at Brands Hatch.

Thompson had to defend his second place for the first half of the 16-lap race as Jordi Gene pushed hard from third. In the closing stages, however, the Spaniard faded leaving Thompson free to challenge Alain Menu for the win.

Despite creating some promising opportunities, Thompson had to settle for second, leap-frogging Gabriele Tarquini and Nicola Larini to sit level on points with Menu.

Thompson's team-mate Olivier Tielemans held his own in the rolling start to make up six places and run in 15th. After a brief safety car period, however, the Dutchman lost some pace and finished 20th.

James Thompson, car number 15

"I've been on the podium in all the last three race meetings and we're dragging ourselves back into a position we never dreamed of being in the championship. It's very romantic to think we could go to the last round in Macau and have a chance to feature in the championship.

"Today's second race is probably going to be a bit more of a shake up I would have thought. It should be interesting! The problem is the track is so fast and you can very rarely overtake into fast corners. It's one of those things and we've got to try and work around it this afternoon."

Olivier Tielemans, car number 16

"I couldn't keep the car on the track. I got up to 15th from the start but after the re-start I couldn't push as much as I wanted to. Hopefully we can fix it for the second race."

-credit: ntechnology.com