Audi’s René Rast delighted in achieving a ‘perfect score’ in Saturdays DTM action at the Nürburgring, where the reigning champion secured pole position, race victory and also posted the fastest lap of the race.
Rast was in control for much of the race, beating BMW’s Bruno Spengler to take his second win of the season and move up to fifth in the drivers’ championship standings.
At the end though the Team Rosberg driver was less than a second clear of Spengler, who enjoyed his first visit to the podium this year – with Rast believing that he might not have been able to hold off the Canadian had the race gone on any longer.
“That was an extremely tough race, especially the final ten minutes,” said Rast. “Bruno got closer and closer and I just couldn’t drive any faster.
“I was extremely happy when I saw the chequered flag. This result is obviously super for the championship and I hope it continues like this.”
It marks the first time that Rast has taken the points for both pole and a win, allowing him to close the gap to 73 points from the championship lead.
“Today, I am really happy. I never achieved the maximum score so far, so [hopefully] things can continue like this. But doing even better tomorrow will be difficult.”
Head of Audi Motorsport Dieter Gass admitted afterwards that there had been uncertainty over Rast’s pace as Spengler reeled in the Audi late in the race.
“That was a fantastic race with a thrilling finish,” said Gass. “We weren’t exactly sure whether René was controlling the pace or if he was in difficulties after his pit stop, because Bruno got closer and closer.
“Fortunately, René brought the race home. His second victory of the season, pole position and three other Audis in the points. On the whole it was an extremely good day for us.”