TCR – Tarquini and Huff at the party in China

The penultimate round of the TCR International was held this weekend in China, on the new Zhejiang track. Jean-Karl Vernay (Leopard Racing), who arrived in Asia in 2nd place in the drivers' ranking, took advantage of the slump of his rival Attila Tassi (M1RA) to take the lead in the general standings.

During the first race, the surprise came from the experienced Gabriele Tarquini (BRC). The former WTCC world champion (in 2009), gave the Hyundai i30 its very first victory on its first official appearance in competition. The car benefits from a special exemption allowing it to take part in the final rounds of the 2017 calendar. Starting from 13th place on the grid, the Italian impressed so much during his comeback that the stewards immediately decided to weight down the car. 40 kilo Korean car for the second race of the day.

With a view to the drivers' title, Jean-Karl Vernay finished on the second step of the podium but still scored 25 points, Gabriele Tarquini not being allowed to score points. Enough to move ahead of Attila Tassi in the general classification. The Hungarian teenager (18 years old) finished 11th after contact at the start.

A few hours later, another familiar face from the world of touring cars took the lead, in the person of Rob Huff (Leopard Racing). Aboard his Volkswagen Golf GTI, the Briton, also WTCC world champion (in 2012), came out brilliantly from an event marred by various contacts. His compatriot James Nash (Lukoil Craft-Bamboo Racing) had to give up his second place to Gianni Morbidelli (West Coast Racing) on ​​the last lap. Jean-Karl Vernay (12th), nevertheless scores a point. The best Hyundai was that of former Chevrolet WTCC driver Alain Menu, who finished just off the podium.

With two races remaining in Dubai (November 17 and 18), Jean-Karl Vernay is 21 points ahead of Attila Tassi. The Hungarian remains the Frenchman's only opponent to win the crown.

Discover the report of the TCR International Series in Zhejiang in issue 2135 of AUTOhebdo, available from Monday evening in digital version on all platforms, and from Wednesday on newsstands.