Mat’o Homola was unable to fend off the advances of eventual double race winner Gianni Morbidelli at Oschersleben this afternoon, as the Slovakian driver was leading the heavily depleted field after the red flag stoppage in race two this weekend.
Homola now moves into the last phase of the TCR International Series with 69 points to his credit, having taken his second podium finish of the year, having led the race itself until turn 11 when Morbidelli got past.
“I’m now feeling disappointed for sure, because to be overtaken with two corners to go is not a good feeling for a driver,” admitted the 22-year-old, who explained that the Opel Astra was feeling a lot more competitive around the 3.667-km circuit.
“The Volkswagens and SEAT were on the pace. I wasn’t with them, so we knew that the key race would be the second one.”
Homola was leading the four-way fight that including Morbidelli, new championship leader Jean-Karl Vernay and Craft Bamboo Lukoil’s Dan Lloyd, and stated that his plan was to save the tyres as much as possible to give him a chance to stay ahead.
“As I did in the first race I tried to keep my position until the end, but Gianni did a great move. The first one was not that good, but the second one on the last lap was very good, so I have to congratulate him.
“So it’s a disappointment, but as this track doesn’t suit us as much as the others, I think in the end it’s a good result, especially in the second race.”
The Slovakian also feels that DG Sport Compétition are progressing with the car very nicely, as Gregoire Demoustier showed good prowess, even with a penalty putting the Frenchman down to 12th at the end of the 15-lap race.
“We are working very hard, but it’s still a long way to go.
“The same as Gianni – the first half of the season, or first few events, were really bad, but then starting from Monza we really pushed hard and improved the Opel a lot.
“I’m happy that here with twisty and slow corners we are on a similar pace to the others.
“It’s a little bit of a disappointment but it’s good points for the championship.”