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Stories of the first WTCR year: Ceccon delivers breakthrough win

Kevin Ceccon underlined his huge promise with a stunning triumph on his Suzuka debut, claiming victory in Race 1 at WTCR JVCKENWOOD Race of Japan.

Driving an Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCR by Romeo Ferraris, the Team Mulsanne-run Italian started second but overtook DHL pole-sitter Aurélien Comte on the run to the chicane at the end of the second lap.

Keeping his composure during two safety car periods, the 25-year-old held on for victory, radioing his team two corners from home to ensure they were in position to celebrate their momentous win.

“We are quite quick in Japan!” said a delighted Ceccon after stepping from his Alfa Romeo. “I had a good, fair fight with Comte and was able to take the lead, then there were so many safety cars! It’s an amazing weekend for me, for the team and for Alfa Romeo. The only thing I did different from a normal race was before the final corner I called the team by radio and said ‘guys, jump on the wall and see you there’.”

Ceccon could have made it two wins at Suzuka had he not picked up a five-second penalty for not having all four wheels of his Team Mulsanne Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCR within his DHL Pole Position starting box in Race 3. He won on the road but was demoted to third with Gabriele Tarquini taking the win.

“I am very disappointed for Kevin because he was the fastest guy here, uncatchable for everybody,” Tarquini said afterwards.

Zdroj: fiawtcr.com