Georgian racer Davit Kajaia says he feels “very proud” of his second row start for the opening TCR Europe race at the Red Bull Ring after securing his best qualifying result.
The PCR Sport with Georgia racer has enjoyed strong pace in his CUPRA so far this weekend, and made it count by qualifying ‘best of the rest’ behind the three Hyundais of Luca Filippi, Josh Files and Nelson Panciatici respectively.
Kajaia told TouringCars.Net he feels “very proud” of his starting position as the best of the VAG runners, especially given this weekend marks his first visit to the Spielberg circuit.
“I want to thank my team, PCR Sport with Georgia, they did a great job to prepare the car very well for the circuit. Also the circuit suits me, it’s my first time here but I adapted quickly,” said Kajaia.
“I’m very happy that I start from fourth position. Now the main job is at least to keep my position but of course I will fight to improve.
“But let’s see. The races are very difficult here and I’ll try to fight for the podium.”
With the Hyundais losing 20kg of compensation weight for this weekend – but still laden with 40kg – Kajaia admits they will still be difficult to overtake in the race given their one-lap pace.
“Yes they’re heavy but they’re still quick here, it will be difficult to overtake them but I will try,” he said.
“I’m very proud that I’m the fastest car of the VW Group, it is more motivation for me to concentrate and focus on doing a good race.”
With rain now falling at the circuit and the track being declared wet for other races, Kajaia admits his wet pace is a big unknown as he has little experience at the circuit.
“I don’t really know because it’s my first time and I don’t know how it will be in wet conditions,” said Kajaia.
“In previous races when I had experience in wet conditions I wasn’t bad.
“I hope it will be OK.”