THE TIME IS RIGHT FOR BREEN TO SHINE
There is no doubt that this is a huge season for Craig Breen. After playing a bit-part role in the World Rally Championship for so many seasons, M-Spot finally put its faith in the Irishman and handed him a full year in its new Puma. Breen certainly deserved the chance and has already proven his versatility on so many different types of event. Rally Italy last weekend was another opportunity for him to shine, and he grabbed it with both hands. A second-placed finish added to his growing collection of silverware.
It marked Breen’s second podium of the season and he is fourth in the drivers’ standings as a result. The breakthrough win at the top table surely can’t be far away, and it will be welcomed by all in the service park who have followed his progress up through the sporting ranks.
Chris Ingram’s performance to maintain his points lead in the Junior section of the WRC is also worthy of much merit.
Toyota doesn’t need much more merit. It currently sits on top of the World Rally Championship, and it is also setting the pace in the World Endurance Championship as well. While the season-long WEC contest is something the teams cherish, the biggest prize of all is always the Le Mans 24 Hours. This weekend’s edition will be a battle of the Hypercars, and the Japanese firm has already laid down a marker by topping the timesheets at the Le Mans test weekend on Sunday. The GR010 was pushed very hard by the extraordinary looking Glickenhaus. However, such is the threadbare nature of the Hypercar division, don’t rule out a winning performance from the LMP2 division this season. It is a category that is packed with talented drivers and the machines can lap within a few seconds of the Hypercars. This year’s Le Mans could bring a huge surprise and don’t forget to pick up your copy of Motorsport News next week for a full report.
If the GR010 does manage to win, it will park itself alongside some of the greatest cars from the Japanese firm, and we have given you the chance to nominate your favourite in our latest MN poll. Check out page 33 to find out how to make your voice count.
The incumbent of the readers’ questions hot seat this week is the 2012 World Touring Car Championship winner Rob Huff. The tale of how he made his way in motorsport should be an inspiration for any up-and-comers today. It is clear from his answers that Huff simply loves motorsport and is very grateful for all the chances that have come his way. We are just grateful they were offered to him.