Sunday morning’s temperature at Sonoma Raceway rose much slower than forecast, but still feeling hotter than mid-sixties F. During the Driver’s Autograph session, the sun’s glare shone on the World Touring Car Championship drivers, who were protected by flag gals with parasols.
Yokohama is the official tire of WTCC, and the manufacturer sends a large crew and product around the world to each venue. Sometimes time is of the essence, and as was between the last race in Argentina and this round in the US, everything was air-freighted. This happens after this weekend also, with less than a fortnight before the next race in Suzuka, Japan.
The FIA WTCC Stewards have been busy this weekend. There were hearings and penalties assessed after Qualifying. After Sunday morning Warm-Up, JAMES THOMPSON/No.10LADA Sport Lukoil LADA Granta got a fine of 250 Euros to be paid directly to FIA.
The age range for the drivers spans 32 years:PEPE ORIOLA No.74 Tuenti Racing Team Chevrolet Cruze at 19 years, and FRANZ ENGSTLER No.6 Liqui Moly Team Engstler BMW 320 at 52 years.
As befitting an international FIA event, there are festivities, pomp, circumstances, flag gals, grid walks, and all that goes with.
