Works LADA driver Hugo Valente reckons focus and concentration will be key to success when Marrakech hosts WTCC AFRIQUIA Race of Morocco from tomorrow (Friday).
The privateer turned factory racer scored his maiden WTCC podium in North Africa two years ago and hopes his approach will pay dividends when he takes to the heavily revised Circuit Moulay El Hassan in his Rosneft-backed Vesta.
“It’s going to be challenging – learning a new street circuit always is,” said the 23-year-old French promise. “Focusing the mind and concentrating is the main thing, as there’s barely any room for error, but it’s typically one of the hottest races on the calendar and that can also take its toll.”
Valente, who partners Nicky Catsburg and Gabriele Tarquini at LADA, continued: “I expect the races to be quite eventful. Discovering the new track surface and kerbing and identifying overtaking opportunities is going to be exciting for everybody, and the short lap means times in qualifying will be tight.”