Ma Qing Hua feels ready for maiden WTCC race in Russia
Ma Qing Hua believes he is ready for his maiden outing in the World Touring Car Championship at Moscow Raceway, despite missing the previous five rounds of this year's series
Citroen will expand to four cars in Russia to accommodate Ma alongside 2014 regulars Yvan Muller, Sebastien Loeb and championship leader Jose Maria Lopez.
"I can't wait to get out and race again, in a high-quality championship and as part of a very professional outfit," said Ma, who was involved in an aborted GP2 campaign for Caterham last season.
"A few weeks ago, I spent a lot of time at [Citroen's] technical centre in Versailles. It was really special to see the old Dakar Rally and WRC cars, which have won so many races and titles.
"I got the opportunity to meet the whole team and we spent a long time getting me set up in the C-Elysee WTCC.
"I had taken part in several test sessions over the winter, and I then did another day in Navarra, which enabled us to work more specifically on the set-up of my car."
Ma, the 2011 Chinese Touring Car champion, visited the Slovakia-Ring WTCC meeting to assist in integrating with the team.
"That was a great experience, too," added Ma. "By the end of the weekend, I felt like I was part of it.
"So, in Moscow, I won't have to worry about finding out how the team operates during the races. I'm ready to go and looking forward to a new challenge."
Citroen will continue to carry the maximum compensation weight of 60kg in Moscow. For the first time since the Compensation Weight has been applied at the Hungaroring this year, Honda and Chevrolet will carry ballast of 20kg.
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