Norbert Michelisz says a strong start proved crucial to his second place in the World Touring Car Championship Main Race in Morocco.
Michelisz, who made the jump on Polestar’s Nestor Girolami from the start, would go on to score a 1-2 finish for Castrol Honda, with team-mate Tiago Monteiro claiming the victory.
Monteiro would establish an adequate advantage over Michelisz courtesy of the safety car restart at half distance and, with engine and brake cooling paramount around the Circuit Moulay el Hassan, Michelisz was forced to settle for the runner-up spot.
“Today’s result was all down to my start. I made a good getaway and made it up to P2 by the first corner,” he said.
“It got pretty close with a few other cars through Turn One, but after that, I was confident of holding my place because it’s very hard to overtake here and my Honda has been fantastic all weekend.”
The net result of both races in Morocco see Honda top the Manufacturers stakes with Volvo.
Michelisz sits second in the championship, seven points adrift of team-mate Monteiro.
“This is a strong start to my season. Today is a great result for the team and I have to congratulate Tiago on his win.”