It’s Joker Lap time in WTCR

Vila Real is all set to host the WTCR − FIA World Touring Car Cup’s unique Joker Lap when WTCR racing returns to the northern Portuguese town this afternoon. Inspired by the FIA World Rallycross Championship and used for the first time in an FIA-sanctioned car race when the FIA World Touring Car Championship visited Vila Real in 2017, the Joker Lap provides a passing opportunity on a circuit where overtaking isn’t always so straightforward.

Ad/> The Joker Lap is located at the roundabout that helps to form the final corner of the 4.790-kilometre circuit following a fast, downhill section. Instead of keeping to the right, the Joker Lap takes drivers on an alternative and slower route to the left.

It adds 86 metres to the full lap and the name of the game is to ensure positions are not lost but, potentially, gained. WTCRWTCR Qualifying woe for Monteiro, WTCR Qualifying front row for Tassi2 HOURS AGO It must be taken by all drivers in both races but not during the first two laps following the start or during a safety car intervention or full-course yellow.

Calling the moment at which drivers take their Joker Lap puts the onus on the teams to get the strategy just right, while the pressure on drivers not to slip up is huge, as home hero and 2019 WTCR Race of Portugal winner Tiago Monteiro explained. “The timing and the decision between you and the team has to be perfect and it can really play to your advantage,” said Monteiro, who races a Goodyear-equipped Honda Civic Type R TCR for LIQUI MOLY Team Engstler.

“When you commit to it the adrenalin is crazy because you know you can’t mess it up but at the same time you can’t be too safe, otherwise you’re going to lose a position or you won’t be able to overtake. It’s such a