Priaulx Not Giving Up on Title
World Touring Car Championship leader Andy Priaulx is refusing to write off his chances for tomorrow's penultimate round at Valencia in Spain - despite qualifying a lowly 15th on the grid
With BMW teammate and title rival Dirk Muller taking third place on the grid, behind the SEAT duo of Jordi Gene and Peter Terting, Priaulx's bad result could wreck his Championship hopes.
But despite struggles for a good balance all weekend, Priaulx is trying to stay optimistic.
"There are a number of things that have built up and I'm not comfortable and confident with the balance of the car which means I can't get the best out of my driving," said Priaulx.
"I did make a mistake in qualifying which probably cost me five positions. It's now a question of finding the balance for tomorrow and we'll see what can happen.
"I was worried about the Championship title before this weekend and obviously I have not given myself the best chance here but anything can happen and it usually does in motorsport. There is no way I am giving up tomorrow and I will fight hard."
Muller added: "To be honest I wasn't really focused on qualifying so high. My target was seventh or eighth so I am really happy with third. The handling of my car is quite good which is encouraging for tomorrow and I have a few changes in mind, which should help.
"In terms of the Championship, yes I will be concentrating on scoring points because each one is important, but I will also be fighting for the win, I have to.
"My main competitors for the Championship are not too close behind me but you never know what will be the outcome of the reverse grid. Expect some close racing tomorrow."
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