Tiago Monteiro took part in both qualifying sessions for the Argentine round of the World Touring Car Championship, WTCC, at the Rio Hondo circuit this afternoon. After shining in free practice where he was the quickest behind the Chevrolets, Tiago Monteiro potentially placed his Honda Civic on the second row of the grid for both of tomorrow’s races. Unfortunately, due to the sporting regulations, an engine change after the last race in Oporto means that the Portuguese driver will have to start from last place on the grid for the first race.
However, Tiago Monteiro is satisfied with his performance and the competitiveness of his Honda Civic on the technical Argentine track.
"We have been fast all weekend. Being the best placed Honda driver in practice and qualifying is very rewarding," said Monteiro. "There was no reason to take any risks in the first qualifying session, because we knew we were going to be penalized. In the second qualifying session we did everything we could to get the 10th fastest lap, which gives you pole position, but we just missed out. Fourth place is still a good result and it opens up a lot of prospects for the race."
Naturally Tiago Monteiro’s objectives are very different for Sunday’s two events on the 4.805 km long Argentine circuit. "In the first race, I plan to try and move up the maximum amount of places, but in the second I will be doing everything I can to fight for the podium. We know it won’t be easy because this track is very wide and overtaking is rather easy. I will try to keep my opponents behind me and put pressure on those in front. I will not give up."