WTCC Qualification....Something to consider?

The 2013 WTCC race season is almost over. I have arrived from China and the paddock area in Macau has the Formula Masters (china series), and also Audi R8 and Porsche Asia cars, occupying the garages. The underground parking area is also full of the local touring car teams. Some of the motorcycle teams have arrived much earlier than last year and they were also busy unpacking the bikes and equipment. My passion for Macau comes from the fact that it is a unique street circuit, has a long history and provides some thrilling racing. The paddock area does get quite crowded on racing days but maybe that adds to the atmosphere of Macau. The WTCC containers are arriving from Shanghai and we expect them to be unloaded, complete Customs checks and be in the paddock next Monday. The Yokohama tyre crews are already here and working as they are supplying tyres for many of the cars who are racing here.

There has been a very good article posted on the web concerning the qualification process for the WTCC. You can read it by clicking on this link....
http://www.touringcartimes.com/2013/11/05/wtcc-qualifying-is-it-working/
Whatever process is sanctioned by the FIA, will always mean a lot of work for the teams but I think there are some very sensible ideas contained in this article. Anything that keeps our championship interesting has got to be a good thing.

The use of vacuum cleaners in the WTCC garages may be a common sight next week. As the teams flooring is still in the missing containers, we have the offer to have a carpet on the garage floor. Rain is forecast for latter next week and some of the garages have sloping floors. The carpets may get very,very wet for the teams who decide to do this.

Last year, we had a car driver and a motorcyclist die but I know that they would be happy to see that the 60th Macau Grand Prix is still as strong and well supported as ever. For me, Macau means work and a chance to see and meet the motorcycle riders who really make you realise just how exciting this race track is.

                                                                                    Didier Grams at Macau 2011                                                Photo/ GCS

                                                                                  Michael Rutter                                                                        Photo/  S.Davison