The second weekend in the FIA WTCR was a beautiful conclusion to the 2021 racing season for Nicola Baldan.
Having disposed of the bitterness for the title lost in the last round in TCR Italy, the color bearer of the Target Competition left the wheel of his Hyundai i30 N to take that of the Elantra N.
The new TCR vehicle from the Korean manufacturer had already been used by the Venetian for its debut in the top-flight touring series at the Hungaroring in August, but everything was completely new there.
Given that even the adventure in Adria had to be purely for fun, laying the foundations for a potential future program with this vehicle, Baldan on his home track had to face again the best riders in the world, facing the many unknowns that they stood in front.
“Also in this case it was practically all new, we had to start from a blank sheet and put everything together a little – Baldan explains to Motorsport.com – We have improved constantly over the weekend, which is very positive. I myself have grown in the feeling with the car, track and tires, therefore in general “.
Nicola Baldan. Target Hyundai Elantra N TCR
Photo by: WTCR
Free Practice and Qualifying were used to get to know the new Adria layout, which practically no one had experienced in the race, while several competitors on the grid had the opportunity to discover with some tests.
“In Qualifying we finished in 20th place, certainly not the best, but we managed to lower the limit by reducing the gap from the best. Clearly without km and experience it was not easy, especially considering that the others had already been here to try. “.
This involved the risk of sprinting from the rear and staying away from problems and accidents, but the 39-year-old fought hard to keep up with the big group.
“I am satisfied with my races, I improved further compared to the previous sessions, but above all seeing that the others did not disappear running away charged me.”
“The pace was very good, which is a pity because if I had managed to start a little further I could have achieved a better result.”
Now the winter break, then Baldan will begin to think about the future, who at this point is destined to remain permanently in “his” world of touring racing, after a couple of years of experience in GT.
“That in the WTCR was obviously an incredible and unforgettable experience. I thank Target Competition and Hyundai Motorsport for the support, as well as my partners who support me and help me continue my career.”
“We are bringing home a positive weekend, which is the right path for the future”.
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