Debut victory of the Audi RS 3 LMS in WTCR – FIA World Touring Car Cup

Audi Sport driver Jean-Karl Vernay picked up where he left off at the end of the 2017 season. As last year’s champion of the TCR International Series he started the new season as one of the best again. From position two on the grid, the 30-year-old pro took the lead in race two and would not lose his rhythm even during a caution period. He dominated the race for 20 laps, set the fastest lap and won with an advantage of 0.89 seconds. “I’d like to thank my team for the strong performance throughout the weekend,” said Vernay. “My Audi RS 3 LMS felt perfect.” Previously, in round one, he had placed fourth as the best Audi driver, followed by position nine in race three. 

“Sincere congratulations to Jean-Karl and the Audi Sport Leopard Lukoil Team on this tremendous season opener and this victory,” said Chris Reinke, Head of Audi Sport customer racing. “This series is highly competitive and features a wide variety of marques, teams and driver personalities. This is the kind of touring car racing fans around the globe love.” Gordon Shedden on his first race weekend with Audi contributed to the team’s good overall results. The Scotsman as the second-best Audi driver placed fifth in race one and eleventh in race two.