BRC Racing Team all set for inaugural Race of Bahrain
As an exhilarating season nears its close, BRC Racing Team is set to tackle the penultimate round on the 2022 WTCR – FIA World Touring Car Cup calendar, Race of Bahrain.
Taking place this weekend (10-12 November), WTCR Race of Bahrain will see the series visit the Middle East for the first time. The Bahrain International Circuit full 15-corner Grand Prix layout measures 5.412km, featuring both right and fast corners. Drivers will go wheel-to-wheel on the track which will provide a new and unique challenge for all competing.
BRC Hyundai N Squadra Corse claimed two podium finishes last time out in Alsace at round seven with Mikel Azcona fighting hard to extend his lead in the drivers’ standings. Both the Spaniard and his team-mate Norbert Michelisz showed strong pace in the Hyundai Elantra N TCR and earned valuable points across both races for the teams’ title.
The team is hoping to get back up to speed quickly after the summer break, continuing to fight at the front of the pack and the top of the standings. The two free practice sessions on Thursday will prove valuable for learning the unique characteristics of the track and its surroundings.
Race of Bahrain will see BRC Racing Team run three Hyundai Elantra N TCR cars, with Nicky Catsburg making his return to the team and the series under the BRC Hyundai N Racing Team banner. The addition of a third car to the line-up will support the push for both titles in the final two rounds of the season.
The itinerary for Race of Bahrain begins on Thursday 10 November with two free practice sessions. Qualifying will take place on Friday 11 November followed by Race 1 that evening (30 mins + 1 lap). Race 2 (25 mins + 1 lap) will take place on Saturday 12 November.
Team Principal of BRC Hyundai N Squadra Corse Gabriele Rizzo said: “There are only two rounds left this season, and the entire team is focused on maximising every session possible. The Bahrain International Circuit is a new challenge for us so track time will be even more important to prepare for the races. We find ourselves in contention for both the teams’ and drivers’ titles, but we know there is still a long way to go. All the team must keep focused.”
Mikel Azcona said: “I’m looking forward to getting back in the car after the summer break and continuing to fight for the title. Bahrain is a new track for me so I will have to learn quite quickly if we want to have some strong results. The main target for the weekend will be to challenge at the front for podiums and increase the gap in the standings by scoring as many points as possible. I am confident in the Hyundai Elantra N TCR, and I can’t wait to get this final part of the season started.”
Norbert Michelisz said: “Bahrain should be an exciting new circuit for us. Other categories always provide very intense and enjoyable races there, and I expect the same in WTCR. The circuit looks challenging, with fast corners and changes of direction combined with hard braking and hairpins. The key will be to have confidence in the Hyundai Elantra N TCR and to be committed in qualifying and both races. I’m looking forward to the races and will aim for a podium finish.”
Nicky Catsburg said: “I am super happy to be back in WTCR having raced with BRC before, so it feels like coming home. It is an honour to have been picked by the team to drive the third car and to help support them in the battle for both titles. I have been to Bahrain International Circuit before so I know it well, however it will be important for me to get up to speed with the Elantra N TCR as soon as possible. I am really looking forward to it and will try everything I can to be the best support for the team.”