Audi R8 LMS Cup: Couto secures fourth pole in a row

Audi R8 LMS Cup Press Release

Shanghai, October 31, 2014 — Qualifying for Round 9 of the Audi R8 LMS Cup took place today at the Shanghai International Circuit. Former Macau GP winner, André Couto, picked up his fourth pole position in a row after posting the fastest lap time on the full length Formula One track. The extra point he collects for pole position in qualifying means he is now only one point behind championship leader Alex Yoong, who will start from position three tomorrow. “Franky” Cheng Congfu will be second on the grid.

In the dark and wet conditions in Shanghai, drivers battled with the weather as well as each other. The fastest six drivers posted lap times within one second of each other, underlining just how intense the competition is becoming at this stage.

“It’s been a very busy day with two practice sessions and qualifying. With André on pole again, the championship has become even tighter. As the session started, the clouds started to gather and everyone was keen to get their laps in early. It meant the track was busy but the drivers did a good job. The crowds should be in for a great race tomorrow!” commented Audi R8 LMS Cup Series Manager, Mark Turner.

In tomorrow’s race, Yoong will have the full 60 kg weight addition, for his win in Round 8, while Couto will be carrying an additional 40 kg after finishing second in the last round.

Amateur driver Steven Lin put in another strong performance and is now only one victory away from securing the amateur championship. “Steven Lin drove very well in qualifying, even posting a lap time faster than some of the professionals”, said Turner.

André Couto:

“I’m happy with the car today – the engineers did a good job on the set-up. It was my first time on the longer circuit here, and the weather conditions made it difficult to understand the track. I still managed to drive my best and hopefully I can go on to win tomorrow.”

Rahel Frey:

“The car felt good and drove well. I thought I was quick today without making any mistakes. But it was simply not quick enough! Position 6 is not a great starting position as it is on the outside of the track and behind five other fast drivers. But for tomorrow: head up and throttle down!”

Adderly Fong:

“Qualifying was not what I expected. I got a puncture on the second lap. It affected the performance, but at least I’m near the front of the grid for tomorrow.”

Audi R8 LMS Cup 2014
Round 9 Qualifying - Shanghai International Circuit, China
Official Result

Photo credit: Audi R8 LMS Cup