Tiago Monteiro: “It’s up to me to be in it from the start”

The Portuguese will compete in his 14th season in the World Touring Car Cup. His career could have ended in 2017 following a very serious accident during testing at the Barcelona circuit. With strength and determination, Tiago returned to competition and, at 44, displays the motivation of a beginner.

Published on 14/02/2021 à 16:03

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Tiago Monteiro: “It’s up to me to be in it from the start”

You're not used to being inactive for so long. What are you doing this winter?

It's true that it's the first time in our 24-year career that we haven't been driving for such a long time. I have a lot of activities here and there, so I'm not like some pilots who tend to get bored. I don't see the time passing.

Quite early on you knew that your sporting program with Honda was renewed. Reassuring?

We have already been talking about it since September. It's a constant questioning, we sometimes sign two-year contracts, but more often than not, we renew year after year. It's good when we know it early. I am delighted to continue to be part of this adventure, this will be my tenth season with Honda. My relationship with the brand goes beyond racing. I am a global ambassador, I am present at presentations of new cars, I participate in the development of racing models, etc.

Your program doesn't just include the WTCR, will you also race in the 24 Hours of the Nürburgring?

Yes, and this program with the Civic TCR entered in the 24 Hours of Nürburgring, I want it more than anything. We have been winning our class for two years.

This bond is all the stronger as the brand never let go of you following your serious accident in 2017…

This was very important in my recovery from a psychological point of view. From the start of my recovery, Honda officials assured me of their support. The brand's senior managers came from Japan to see me in Portugal with this message of reassurance. You feel ready to do anything to come back. I received help from specialists who came to my bedside thanks to them. The offer was made to me whether I drive or not, so that I stay with the brand. I've never said this before, but the year I returned, 2019, I had two very serious offers from other brands. Out of respect and love for Honda, I decided to stay, it was the least I could do. If I can finish my career at Honda, I will.

Find the entire interview in AUTOhebdo No. 2298, available in digital version and on newsstands.