Cruzes leave Europe with a double win in Portugal
29/06/2012
Muller takes Race 1 and Menu brings Michel Vaillant home to victory in Race 2
PORTIMÃO - It was a successful and emotional last round of the WTCC’s European season for Chevrolet with the Cruzes taking another double win today at Portimão.
Yvan Muller strengthened his leadership in the Drivers’ standings by winning Race 1, while the Vaillante-liveried Cruze was first past the chequered flag in Race 2 with Alain Menu – in the guise of Michel Vaillant, the most acclaimed racing driver in comic strip books – playing his part perfectly and claiming the top spot. Rob Huff marked his 200th race in touring car racing with a podium finish.
Race 1 saw Muller taking the lead at the first corner and keeping it to the finish line, although he had to deal with constant pressure from SEAT driver Gabriele Tarquini and Huff, who finished 3rd. Alain Menu finished 5th after climbing from P9 on the grid.
The second race was relatively easy for Alain Menu, who took the lead from the start and cruised to victory, confirming the winning legend of Michel Vaillant. It was a livelier race for Huff and Muller as they were involved in close battles with home favorite Tiago Monteiro (SEAT), Alberto Cerqui (BMW) and Tarquini. The Chevrolet drivers finished the race 4th and 5th respectively.
It was an all round good day for the Cruzes with Alex MacDowall, for Bamboo Engineering, ending up in the points in both races.
The Portugal race saw the end of the WTCC’s European season. The Cruzes now head back to the RML factory in the UK for preparation for the long journey to Brazil, where the next round will be held on 20-22 July after a seven week break.