Kevin Gleason made his FIA World Touring Car Championship debut last month at Monza with RC Motorsport, scoring points on his debut in the Lada Vesta TC1. Since then, the American racer competed successfully in Hungary and is now all set for the challenge that is the Nurburgring Nordschleife.
Kevin, it’s been a strong start to your WTCC campaign with a strong ninth position at Monza and a pair of 12th position finishes. How are you adapting to the new car?
“I learned a lot more about the car over the races in Hungary. It’s a fun car to drive for sure but takes a certain technique which I think I figured out. It was good to feel how the tyres changed throughout the race as well which is good information. I’m much more comfortable in the car as we have made some adjustments to the wheel, pedals and shifter so it’s all coming together.”
This week you have something a bit special… The Nurburgring Nordschleife round of the championship. I’m sure you’re looking forward to this…
“For sure I’m very excited to be competing on the Nordschleife. It will be a throwback to proper old school racing on the world’s most demanding track. Combined with the 24 Hour race the atmosphere will be amazing with fans lining the entire track through the Eiffel Mountains. I’m sure the TC1 car will be very difficult to master around this track but I am looking forward to the challenge.
What are your hopes for the rest of the season?
“I want to start out with improving in qualifying which will in turn change the entire race weekend. If I am able to start a bit further up then you are in the middle of the action and fighting for points, so this is my goal!”