With a lot of struggles for WestCoast Racing during their 2017 TCR International Series campaign so far, it was a welcome return to form for Gianni Morbidelli, who took his first pole position in the series since Imola of last year, beating fellow Volkswagen Jaap van Lagen by 0.243 seconds in the process.
“We’ve not had an opportunity like this so far this season, which was frustrating. I have had to be very realistic, as we haven’t been able to have the results,” said the Italian during the post-qualfiying press conference, who now draws level on points with team mate Giacomo Altoè.
“To be on pole position for me is great not only for me, but for the team and all the guys at WestCoast Racing. They are working hard all the time.
“So it’s good to come back and be on pole and to have this sort of satisfaction, to help recharge the batteries and be motivated to do our best, as we have done until now.”
Now with the new Balance of Performance changes being introduced for this weekend, it has further assisted the team and both drivers to move further forward in terms of parity, with Altoè also ending up sixth, 0.457 seconds off his team mate.
“Until now, I’ve not been able to do what I can or what I want in the car, because the car wasn’t setting up as I wanted it.
“I have to say that it is the first time that the car has really worked, and as a driver, it is so important to have a good feeling in the car.”
The 49-year-old is still keeping his feet on the ground, regarding potential results that both drivers will achieve tomorrow, but he still has a chance.
“It is just a small step towards seeing if we can be competitive enough tomorrow in the races. I’ll cross my fingers and let’s see.”
The first turn has been modified significantly, which sees drivers carry more momentum after the end of the start/finish straight, but it has caught several drivers out, including defending champion Stefano Comini, heading into the sweeping right-hander at turn two.
But when asked whether an advantage would be gained by anyone, Morbidelli was quick to dismiss it.
“Sometimes when you are following another car, you can’t even see the kerb and it’s very dirty, but it’s the same for everybody.”