Tiago Monteiro has spent three days at the Autodromo do Algarve International to deepen his knowledge and development of the Honda Civic that he will race in the World Touring Car Championship (WTCC) in 2013 as well as the final three race weekends of the current season. The tests were conducted in high temperatures at a very demanding circuit.
Gabriele Tarquini was in charge of the testing program for day one, with Tiago Monteiro taking over for the last two days. The Portuguese driver was able to continue his adaptation to the Honda Civic and said he was fully satisfied with the week’s results. "We worked hard because we’re out of time before the first race. The reality is that every time we take to the track, we take a step forward. There is still a long way to go, but with the dedication and professionalism of JAS Motorsport Honda, I’m sure we can achieve our goals," said Monteiro.
The Honda Civic has given Monteiro an excellent overall impression, the Portuguese driver having the opportunity to drive many different cars over the course of his career. "The Honda Civic is very effective under braking and corner entry, but it is very different from what I have been used to driving for some time," says Tiago Monteiro. "The first race in Japan will be a huge challenge for Honda. It will be a home event and the desire is for everything to go really well."
Before the Honda Civic takes to the Suzuka circuit, Tiago Monteiro will participate in the FIA WTCC races in Sonoma, United States, from the 21st to the 23rd of September.