The ‘Temple of Speed’ that is the Autodromo Monza circuit in Milan, Italy, will play host to the hotly contested TCR Europe championship finale. Josh Files is currently leading the drivers’ standings, with Peugeot driver Julien Briche snapping at his heals; in what is set to be a frenetic two way fight in the Italian city.
Last time out in Barcelona Files catapulted his Target Competition run Hyundai i30 N TCR car on to the front row of the grid in qualifying. Finishing the first race in 2nd place on the road he received a drive through penalty for a start infringement dropping him out of the points. In the reverse grid race 2 he made excellent progress to come home 5th leaving the venue with a now reduced 48 point advantage.
Heading to the third oldest circuit in the world, Monza, Files is searching still for further victories in his bid to secure the outright championship title. In last year’s TCR Europe instalment at the circuit, Files scored a double podium, and despite his Hyundai race car still carrying the maximum 1345kg ballast for the weekend ahead, the Brit is cautiously optimistic he can repeat his 2018 form.
“Monza is a fantastic circuit with a huge heritage and passionate atmosphere” Files explains. “Last year I was surprised by the pace I had and I hope I can take that experience forward with me this weekend.”
“I’m extremely happy that Target were declared Team Champions this season in Barcelona and knowing I was an integral part to that success is giving me that extra boost I’ll need going into this weekend”
“I know it won’t be easy, we are very heavy as usual, and everyone will bring their A game to end the season on a high. So I’ll be doing exactly the same. As usual the team will be pushing to the max, and I’ll be driving the wheels off the car, as poles, wins and podiums are what we’re here for!”
The two free practice sessions kick off Friday afternoon, with the all-important two-part qualifying session commencing at 10.45 Saturday morning. Race 1 is at 16.50 Saturday evening and Race 2 will follow on Sunday at 11.35. Both races will be streamed live via FaceBook and YouTube, and as usual broadcast live on local terrestrial TV as well as the free to view digital FreeSports channel.