In Sochi, Yann Ehrlacher can confirm himself as FIA WTCR Champion for the second year in a row, although in reality the fight for the title is six drivers when we reach the last round of the 2021 season.
The Frenchman is at the top of the standings with 36 points clear of his rivals, first of which is Frédéric Vervisch, while Esteban Guerrieri is only one distance behind the Belgian and, further away there would also be Jean-Karl Vernay mathematically still in the race.
In between, however, we find Ehrlacher’s teammates, namely Santiago Urrutia and uncle Yvan Muller; more than putting a spoke in the wheel, the drivers of Cyan Lynk & Co will join forces to help the leader to win a game that is anything but simple, as he explains himself.
“I’m not thinking too much about the title, but we are in a pretty good position and it would be very nice to win two World Championships in a row, which has never been done before in the WTCR. It’s my job, it’s why I’m here and I’d be delighted, but we have a long way to go until the end of the weekend, ”says Ehrlacher.
“When you have won the title once, the pressure is less because you already know what it is like. Having been in this position last year, I know a little better how to handle it, I feel more comfortable. It doesn’t mean it’s easier or that I know where to go. I’m not worried about being on a new track for the last race, I’m more worried that it fits well with Lynk & Co ”.
“There are two points to be done in sixth gear and we know that is not our strength, but we will try to adapt the car as best and as quickly as possible. 36 points of advantage are a lot, but they are nothing at the same time. In two races they can vanish quickly. I feel lucky to be in a position to win the title again, so I’ll push hard and do my best. “
Yann Ehrlacher, Cyan Racing, Lynk & Co 03 TCR
Photo by: Francesco Corghi
Throughout the weekend there are 60 up for grabs, so it is clear that the help of Urrutia and Muller will become essential right from Qualifying.
“With two victories under my belt I am in a good position to finish well in the standings. I’m a contender for the title, but I don’t think about the drivers’ standings, I’m focused on the team standings and then to help Yann because he’s practically done, he just needs to get to the finish line of the races ”, explains Uruguay.
“Then I will focus on myself to try and finish on the podium, which would be fantastic in the second year in the WTCR. I will continue to gain experience to improve more and more “.
Muller is also of the same opinion: “Mathematically, I still have the chance to win the title, but it is reduced. The main objective is not that, but to help Cyan Racing Lynk & Co win the World Championship for the teams and Yann that drivers”.
“If I finish on the podium at the end of the season then I would be happy because it would be the 14th time in a row in the World Touring Car; certainly a fantastic result, but that is not the main objective “.
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