Paul di Resta, the new favorite

From the first laps of the sedans of the DTM on the Shanghai track, Paul di Resta was keen to put pressure on Bruno Spengler. Second time in the first free practice sessions, best time in the second session, the Scot is at ease on the Chinese track, and has made it clear to his Canadian rival that he should be counted on to win the 2010 title. .

Today, the cousin of Dario and Marino Franchitti once again got the ball rolling. At the end of qualifications which saw Bruno Spengler embed his Mercedes C-Klasse in the wall and finishing 17th, the Force India reservist took pole. Here he is now in the shoes of the favorite.

“This morning, I was the fastest in free practice, this afternoon, I achieved pole position, it’s a great result, says the 24-year-old pilot. It was very difficult, there was very little grip. I tried not to take too many risks. I give myself the best chance of winning and winning the title. However, qualifying showed that a lot can happen on this circuit. You will have to be very attentive. »

At his side, Paul di Resta will meet Gary Paffet. Third in the general classification with nine points behind Bruno Spengler, the third driver of the team McLaren-Mercedes has not given up on the 2010 title. Tomorrow, the Briton will not calculate. If he wants to hope to be crowned a second time after 2005, then he will absolutely have to finish on the first step of the podium.

“Getting pole was possible, He explains. But starting second, everything remains possible for tomorrow. I want to win to maintain my chances of becoming champion. »

As we will have understood, the big loser of the day is called Bruno Spengler. The Canadian, who has seriously jeopardized his title chances, will certainly have to count on a failure by Paul di Resta to avoid being dislodged from his leadership chair.