Jimmy Clairet was ‘really happy’ after scoring a strong lights-to-flag win in the opening TCR Europe race of the season at the Autódromo do Algarve, despite some late race pressure.
The Team Clairet Sport Audi driver had earlier in the day secured his first pole position in the series and he followed that up with a second consecutive win, following his victory in the 2024 season finale in Valencia.
By the end of the opening lap, Clairet had opened up a lead of over two-and-a-half seconds over the CUPRA of Eric Gené, thanks to the latter being involved in an incident with Felice Jelmini at Turn 4.
Although Gené closed down Clairet’s lead by the mid-stage of the race, the Frenchman was able to maintain just enough of an advantage to prevent the Spaniard being able to attempt a pass.
Victory for Clairet is the third of hid TCR Europe career.
“When we saw the entry list we knew it would be really tough this season,” said Clairet. “This year with Audi we have a really good car to compare ourselves with other teams.
“I was a bit lucky with the crash behind me, as Gené was flying. I tried to manage the tyres and not make any mistakes, and then won the race, so I’m really happy.
“Tomorrow I’ll start P10, but the championship is long, so from tenth you have to wait for any opportunities to overtake, but my objective tomorrow is to finish in the top ten at the minimum.”